L.IBRARY 

OF  THE 

University  of  California. 

Mrs.  SARAH  P.  WALSWORTH. 

Received  October,  1894. 
Accessions  No.  S^S^/S^,      Class  No. 


mm 


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littp://www.arcliive.org/details/bookofpublicprayOOpresricli 


'     BOOK  OF  PUBLIC  PRAYER, 


COMPILED  FEOM   THE 


AUTHORIZED    FORMULARIES    OF    WORSHIP 


PKESBYTEKIAN  CHURCH, 


AS   PREPARED   BY   THE   REFORMER 


CALVm,  OCX,  BUCER.  AND  OTHERS. 


WITH  SUPPLEMENTARY  FORMS. 


nSITBIlSITT 


NE 


ORK 


PUBLISHED   BY   CHARLES   SCRIBNER, 

3T7   &   3T9    BROADWAY. 

1857. 


Tn 


J  to  Act  of  Congress, 


Entered,  according  to  Act  of  Congress,  in  the  year  1856,  by 

CHARLES    SCRIBNER, 

In  the  Clerk's  Office  of  the  District  Court  of  the  United  States,  for  the  Northern 
District  of  New  York. 


8TBRE0TTPED  BY  PRINTED  BY 

THOMAa    B.    SUITH,  B.    Cbaighbad, 

IkU  Beekman  Street.  53  Yesey  St. 


jl^ 


CONTENTS 


*-*-¥ 

*  PAOK 

Introduction ix. 

A  Table  of  Portions  op  Holt  Scripture 25 

The  Order  of  Divine  Service  on  the  Lord's  Day 2*1 

Morning  Service 29 

Other  Forms  for  the  Morning  Service 43 

Evening  Service 64 

Other  Forms  for  the  Evening  Service 13 

The  Manner  of  Celebrating  the  Sacrament  of  the  Lord's 

Supper 8t 

Other  Forms  for  the  Celebration  of  the  same 105 

The  Form  of  Administering  the  Sacrament  of  Baptism.  129 

Other  Forms  of  Administering  the  same 141 

The  Form  of  Administering  the  Sacrament  of  Baptism  to 

Adult  Persons 160 

The  Form  for  the  Admission  of  Baptized  Persons  to  the  Table 

of  the  Lord 164 

Occasional  Offices 173 

The  Order  of  Service  for  a  Day  of  Humiliation,  Fasting,  and 
Prayer 175 


♦  •       --i^ 


iv  Contents. 

PAOB 

The  Order  of  Service  for  a  Day  of  Public  Thanksgiving 184 

The  Office  for  the  Confirmation  of  Marrriage 191 

The  Burial  of  the  Dead 19*7 

Public  Discipline,  Ordinatiok,  etc 215 

The  Form  of  Public  Excommunication 21*7 

The  Form  of  Public  Repentance 221 

The  Form  for  Ordaining  Elders  and  Deacons 225 

The  Form  for  Ordaining  Ministers  of  the  "Word  of  God 234 

The  Form  for  the  Installation  of  a  Pastor 248 

The  Office  for  the  Dedication  of  a  Church 253 

Scriptural  and  other  Occasional  Praters 259 

Scriptural  Prayers 261 

A  Comprehensive  Prayer,  chiefly  in  the  Words  of  Scripture.  218 

Sundry  Occasional  Prayers 295 

The  Morning  Prayer 295 

The  Evening  Prayer. 297 

A  Short  Prayer  for  all  Men 298 

A  Prayer  for  Pardon  and  Help 299 

A  Prayer  in  Time  of  Discord 300 

A  Prayer  at  the  Opening  of  a  Church  Court 301 

A  Prayer  for  Sick  Persons 302 

The  same 303 

For  a  Sick  Child 305 

For  a  Person  under  Affliction 306 

For  Rain 306 

For  Fair  Weather 307 

For  Peace ,, 308 

In  Time  of  Pestilence 308 

For  the  Absent  from  Home 309 

A  Thanksgiving  for  Ram 309 

A  Thanksgiving  for  Fair  Weather 310 


r 


^^  Contents.  v 

PAGB 

A  Thanksgiving  for  Harvest 310 

A  Thanksgiving  for  Deliverance  from  Pestilence 311 

A  Thanksgiving  for  a  Safe  Return  Home 312 

A  Prayer  to  be  used  at  Sea 312 

A  Prayer  for  the  President  of  the  United  States,  and  all  in 

Civil  Authority 314 

The  Collects 315 

Appendix — ^Notes 349 


^. 


ADVERTISEMENT 


npHE  chief  purposes  contemplated  in  the  present  publica- 
tion,  are  briefly  as  follows  : 

1.  To  furnish  Ministers  of  the  Gospel,  and  those  who, 
in  Theological  Seminaries,  are  preparing  for  the  Ministry, 
with  models  of  Public  Devotion,  approved  and  recom- 
mended by  the  Church,  that  may  facilitate  that  study  of 
"  the  best  writers  on  the  subject,"  which  is  enjoined  by  the 
Directory  of  Worship,  upon  all  who  lead  in  the  public 
oflSces  of  religion. 

2.  To  provide  laymen,  who,  in  remote  and  destitute 
settlements,  may  be  called  upon,  in  the  absence  of  Minis- 
ters, to  conduct  religious  exercises,  with  such  aids  as  they 
naturally  require. 

3.  To  supply  a  deficiency  long  felt  and  frequently  ac- 
knowledged, in  the  case  of  Chaplains  in  the  Army  and 
Navy,  and  persons  officiating  from  time  to  time  on  board 
the  vessels  of  our  merchant  service ;  many  of  whom,  for 
want  of  such  assistance  as  this  volume  is  designed  to 
afford,  have  been  led  to  adopt  forms  of  worship  peculiar 
to  other  denominations. 


viii  Advertisement. 

4.  It  is  also  believed,  that  the  wide  circulation  of  such 
a  Book  of  Public  Devotions,  among  the  laity  of  the  Church, 
would  tend  to  promote  a  deeper  interest  in  the  services  of 
the  Sanctuary,  and  a  more  correct  appreciation  of  the 
dignity  and  value  of  the  ministrations  of  God's  House, 
than  at  present  prevail. 

On  the  other  hand,  it  need  scarcely  be  added,  that  no 
thought  is  entertained  of  seeking  for  this  or  any  other 
Form  of  Worship  an  adoption  by  ecclesiastical  courts,  that 
would  impose  it  upon  the  churches  for  compulsory  ob- 
servance. The  authorship  of  these  forms,  and  the  frequent 
sanction  bestowed  upon  them  in  former  times  by  the 
Church,  sufficiently  authorize  that  free  consultation  and 
voluntary  use,  which  are  all  that  is  expected  or  desired  in 
their  behalf. 


^'.4: 

/^:^" 


INTRODUCTION. 

rriHE  Churclies  of  the  Reformed  or  Presbyterian  family, 
while  giving  less  prominence  to  the  subject  of  ritual- 
ism than  some  other  Protestant  denominations,  have  never 
been  justly  open  to  the  charge  of  neglecting  the  decency 
and  order  of  God's  House.  In  their  Liturgies,  and  Di- 
rectories of  Worship,  they  have  at  all  times  made  full 
provision  for  the  due  performance  of  public  religious 
rites.  It  is  true  that  the  formularies  prepared  with  this 
view,  have  constituted  a  class  by  themselves,  with  char- 
acteristics entirely  their  own.  On  this  account,  they  have 
been  generally  overlooked  by  those  who  have  searched 
for  any  thing  like  the  ancient  and  prescriptive  rituals 
that  exist  in  the  prelatic  Churches. 

The  peculiarities  that  so  distinguish  the  Presbyterian 
Liturgies,  relate  to  their  structure,  derivation,  and  mode 
of  observance.  The  rituals  of  the  Lutheran  and  Ang- 
lican Churches  consist  of  materials  that  claim  a  remote 
antiquity,  having  been  handed  down  through  Roman 
and  Oriental  channels,  from  a  period  prior  to  the  Ref- 
ormation. But  the  Reformed  worship,  in  connection 
with  that  doctrinal  system  to  which  it  is  allied,  is  con- 

1*  ^ 


X  Introduction. 

structed  upon  elements  purely  Scriptural ;  and  so  far  as 
it  is  of  human  composition,  asserts  for  itself  no  authorship 
more  ancient  than  that  of  the  Divines  of  the  Sixteenth  Cen- 
tury. The  former,  to  some  extent,  follow  the  complicated 
and  involved  aiTangement  of  the  medijeval  type ;  while 
the  latter  is  distinguished  by  a  natural  and  logical 
order,  and  extreme  simplicity  of  style.  And  lastly,  these 
forms  of  service  differ  from  such  as  are  more  ceremonial 
and  more  ancient,  by  the  fact  that  they  are  not  set 
forth  for  constant  repetition;  but  leave  to  the  oflBciating 
minister  a  wide  freedom  of  omission  or  interpolation, 
according  to  the  exigencies  of  the  occasion;  and  bind 
him  only  to  a  general  conformity  with  the  method  laid 
down. 

That  these  peculiarities  characterize,  almost  without 
exception,  the  numerous  formularies  of  worship  existing 
in  the  vai-ious  branches  of  the  Presbyterian  Church, 
would  be  unaccountable  but  for  the  fact  of  their  com- 
mon origin.  The  master-mind  to  whom  that  Church  is 
indebted  for  the  new  statement  of  her  apostolic  discip- 
line and  doctrine,  elaborated  also  a  pattern  of  public 
prayer  for  the  celebration  of  ecclesiastical  ordinances, 
closely  framed  upon  the  teachings  of  that  Divine  Rule, 
whence  he  derived  every  other  part  of  the  grand 
system  to  which  his  name  has  been  affixed.  The  Di- 
vines of  other  Reformed  countries  appear,  without  ma- 
terial deviation,  to  have  copied  the  forms  of  worship 
established  at  Geneva  by  Calvin. 

The  Reformed  worship  was  inaugurated  at  Geneva  in 


Introduction, 


XI 


the  year  1535,  wten  the  reformer  Farel  introduced  the 
Protestant  doctrines  into  the  pulpit  of  the  cathedral  of 
that  city,  and  began  to  celebrate  the  ordinances  of  re- 
ligion in  the  vulgar  tongue.  It  was  more  properly,  how- 
ever, in  the  year  1543,  that  Calvin,  upon  his  return  from 
Strasburg,  commenced  the  use  of  a  Hturgy,  which  he 
had  prepared  during  his  banishment,  and  which  was 
now  set  forth  as  the  general  order  of  Divine  service. 
From  that  time  to  the  present,  it  has  continued  in  con- 
stant observance,  and  though  unfortunately  subjected  to 
some  modifications,  suiting  it  to  the  loose  doctrines 
which  of  late  years  have  been  preached  in  the  pulpit 
of  Calvin,  that  liturgy  may  now  be  heard  substantially 
the  same  in  all  the  churches  of  the  city  and  canton  of 
Geneva. 

The  Reformed  Churches  of  France  received,  in  the  year 
1559,  not  only  the  Confession  of  Faith,  and  the  Form  of 
Discipline,  which  at  their  solicitation  had  been  drawn  up 
for  them  by  the  great  theologian  of  Geneva,  but  also  the 
Form  of  Church  Prayers  and  Administration  of  Sacra- 
ments, prepared  by  him.  These  were  forthwith  adopted 
by  enactment  of  the  National  Synod,  and  made  binding 
upon  all  the  ministers  of  the  Reform  in  France.  Can- 
didates for  the  sacred  oflfice  were  required  to  give  their 
signature  to  an  engagement  of  adherence  to  this  estab- 
lished order.  And  in  the  subsequent  conventions  of 
that  highest  ecclesiastical  body,  until  dissolved  one  hun- 
dred years  after  by  the  persecuting  government,  pro- 
vision continued  to  be  made  for  the  careful  and  univer- 


xii  Introduction. 

sal  maintenance  of  that  form  of  worship  which  had 
been  found  so  conducive  to  the  edification  and  comfort 
of  believers. 

The  Waldenses  of  Piedmont,  representing  a  race  that 
for  centuries  had  contended  for  the  apostolic  faith  and 
discipline,  sent,  in  the  sixteenth  century,  their  delegates 
to  the  newly-Eeformed  Churches  of  Switzerland,  for  the 
purpose  of  ascertaining  more  definitely  the  nature  of  their 
movement,  and  giving  their  adhesion  to  an  evangelical 
system  of  truth.  These  primitive  Christians  accepted  as 
their  own  the  Confession  of  Faith  established  by  Calvin ; 
and  they  likewise  adopted  the  Reformed  Liturgy,  which 
they  have  continued  to  use  down  to  the  present  day. 
"Within  a  few  years,  to  render  more  perfect  the  uniformity 
of  their  worship,  they  have  re-moulded  the  four  or  five 
slightly-differing  formularies  in  vogue  among  them,  as 
received  from  other  Presbyterian  Churches,  and  have  set 
forth  a  revised  ritual,  under  the  title  of  "  The  Liturgy  of 
the  Evangelical  Church  of  the  Valleys.-" 

In  Holland,  as  early  as  1566,  the  Liturgy  of  Calvin, 
after  various  modifications,  came  into  general  use.  It 
was  in  16*74,  however,  that  a  decree  of  the  Synod  of 
Holland  and  Zealand  established  it  as  the  universal  order 
of  worship.  Though  differing  more  than  any  other  of  the 
Reformed  rituals  from  the  original,  this  liturgy  will  yet 
be  seen,  by  its  general  structure  and  pervading  ideas,  to 
belong  to  the  same  category,  and  derive  its  characteristic 
features  from  the  same  source.  It  has  been  in  prevalent 
use,  since  its  promulgation,  among  all  the  Churches  of 


Introduction.  xiii 

the  Netherlands.  The  forms  for  the  ordinary  services  of 
worship  have  in  part  become  obsolete ;  but  the  more 
essential  oflSces  of  Communion,  Baptism,  and  Ordination, 
are  still  celebrated  both  in  the  mother  country  and  in  her 
colonial  possessions  of  South  Africa  and  the  East  Indies, 
as  well  as  in  the  United  States. 

The  German  Reformed  Churches  of  the  Palatinate  pro- 
mulgated, in  the  year  1563,  that  admirable  system  of  doc- 
trine which  has  been  called,  from  the  city  where  it  was 
prepared,  the  "Heidelberg  Catechism."  At  the  same 
period  the  Divines  of  that  city  introduced  the  Reformed 
worship,  corresponding  substantially  with  the  forms  of  the 
Walloon  and  other  Calvinistic  Churches.  The  variation 
from  the  Genevan  ritual  is  but  slight. 

The  Evangelical  Churches  in  the  French-speaking  can- 
tons of  Switzerland  have  adopted,  with  various  alterations, 
the  Liturgy  of  Geneva.  The  most  interesting  aspect  un- 
der which  this  ritual  has  been  presented  among  those 
Churches,  is  the  very  beautiful  formulary  prepared  in  the 
early  part  of  the  last  century,  for  the  Church  of  Neuchatel. 
Founded  upon  the  old  established  service-book  of  Calvin, 
it  embodies  many  remarkable  improvements,  conceived  in 
the  purest  devotional  spirit,  and  arranged  with  marked 
discrimination.  This  formulary  has  been  partially  made 
known  in  America,  by  means  of  a  very  imperfect  transla- 
tion, now  used  at  the  Huguenot  Church  in  Charleston, 
South  Carohna.  It  is  not  generally  known,  however,  that 
this  excellent  work  was  the  production  of  the  famous  John 
Frederic  Ostervald,  the  learned   and  pious  theologian  of 


xiv  Introduction. 

Neuchatel,  the  translator  and  commentator  of  th«  French 
Bible.  Published  first  in  1713,  this  liturgy  has  been  in 
use  ever  since,  among  the  churches  of  that  canton  of 
Switzerland.  •    , 

We  come  now  to  speak  of  the  action  of  that  Church 
from  which,  more  immediately,  our  own  branch  of  Presby- 
terianism  has  sprung,  with  reference  to  a  provision  for  the 
public  ordinances  of  religion.  It  was  in  1659  that  John 
Kjiox,  returning  from  an  exile  spent  chiefly  in  the  city 
of  Geneva,  at  the  feet  of  his  friend  and  teacher,  Calvin, 
brought  with  him  to  Scotland  a  version  of  the  Genevan 
Liturgy.  He  had  already  been  in  the  habit  of  using  it 
as  the  order  of  worship  among  the  English  congregations 
in  that  city.  This  form  of  service  he  at  once  submitted 
to  the  General  Assembly  for  adoption ;  and,  by  order  of 
that  supreme  ecclesiastical  authority,  it  was  commanded 
to  be  printed,  being  "thought  necessary  and  profitable 
for  the  Church."  In  1660  it  was  directed  that  "the 
Sacraments  should  be  administered"  after  the  "  Book  of 
our  Common  Order ;"  and  again,  that  "  a  uniform  order . 
should  be  kept  in  the  ministration  of  the  sacraments,  &c., 
according  to  the  Kirk  of  Geneva."  The  formulary  thus 
adopted,  continued  in  more  or  less  extensive  use  until  the 
period  of  the  Assembly  of  Divines,  who  met  at  West- 
minster in  the  year  1643,  for  the  purpose  of  preparing  a 
common  Confession  of  Faith,  Order  of  Discipline,  and 
Form  of  Worship  for  the  Churches  of  Great  Britain. 

The  enactments  of  the  Church  of  Scotland,  during  the 
period  of  her  freedom  from  the  yoke  of  Prelacy,  were 


Introduction. 


XV 


very  explicit  in  relation  to  lier  adopted  and  prescribed 
forms  of  worship.  We  find  tliem  referred  to,  again  and 
again,  in  the  proceedings  of  the  General  Assemblies.  It 
was  ordered  that  no  alterations  or  additions  be  made  in 
the  established  forms ;  that  readers  be  required  to  confine 
themselves  to  the  appointed  modes  of  prayer ;  that  minis- 
ters pro\dde  themselves  with  that  Order  in  prayer  and  ad- 
ministration of  sacraments.  The  same  formulary  was,  in 
1567,  by  order  of  the  Assembly,  translated  into  Gaelic, 
for  the  use  of  the  northern  Churches.  In  1620,  a  Scottish 
clergyman  speaks  of  it  as  the  only  "  warrantable  form 
directed  or  approven  by  the  Kirk,"  and  habitually  used. 
It  is  stated  by  a  contemporary  writer,  that  as  late  as  1648, 
the  Knoxian  Liturgy  continued  to  be  the  common  ritual 
of  the  Church. 

The  laws  of  the  Church  of  Scotland,  on  this  subject, 
have  never  been  repealed ;  nor  has  any  rejection  of  this 
ancient  Presbyterian  Liturgy  occurred  in  her  legislation. 
It  has  never,  indeed,  appeared  that  there  even  existed  a  dis- 
position to  cast  aside  these  forms,  of  which  various  editions 
were  published — ^undoubtedly  in  accordance  with  the  de- 
mands of  the  Church — down  to  the  very  year  in  which 
the  Assembly  at  Westminster  commenced  its  sittings. 

It  may  seem  to  militate  against  this  view  of  the  high 
esteem  in  which,  thus  far,  the  Book  of  Common  Order  was 
held,  that  the  Westminster  Assembly  should  have  pro- 
mulgated a  new  form  of  worship,  which  at  once  superseded 
the  use  of  the  older  one.  But,  taking  into  consideration 
the  project  with  which  the  transactions  of  that  body  were 


xvi  Introduction. 

Gonnected,  it  is  easy  to  conceive  that  this  change  should 
have  been  made,  and  concurred  in  by  the  Church  of  Scot- 
land, in  hope  of  the  benefits  of  an  extensive  agreement  and 
conformity,  to  be  realized  upon  the  adoption  of  an  entirely 
new  platform.  This  project  of  a  "  Uniformity  in  Rehgion" 
was  divulged  in  the  Solemn  League  and  Covenant,  agreed 
upon  in  1543  by  commissioners  of  the  Church  of  Scot- 
land, and  by  the  Parliament  and  the  Assembly  of  Divines 
in  England,  and  afterward  subscribed  by  great  numbers 
of  the  people  of  both  countries.  One  of  the  articles  of  that 
document  binds  the  subscribers  to  "  endeavour  to  bring 
the  Churches  of  God,  in  the  three  kingdoms,  to  the  nearest 
conjunction  and  uniformity  in  religion,  confession  of  faith, 
form  of  Church  government,  directory  for  worship,  and 
catechising." 

A  little  before  the  meeting  of  the  Assembly,  in  1641,  the 
Scottish  Book  of  Common  Order  was  reprinted  at  London, 
in  abridged  form,  and  "  presented  to  the  most  high  court 
of  Parliament."  A  second  edition  of  this  work  appeared 
duiing  the  session  of  that  body,  in  1643,  with  a  similar 
dedication.  There  can  be  little  doubt  that  these  reprints 
were  procured  with  a  view  to  the  adoption  of  the  Scottish 
formulary  by  Parliament,  as  the  established  order  of  wor- 
ship under  the  new  state  of  things.  Such  probably  was 
also  the  design  of  "  The  new  Book  of  Scotland,"  issued  in 
1644 ;  another  synopsis  of  Knox's  Liturgy.  And  al- 
though, from  the  fact  that  the  records  of  the  Assembly 
have  been  destroyed,  it  is  difficult  to  trace  the  influences 
that  may  have  operated   in  the  preparation  of  the  new 


Introduction.  xvii 

Directory,  there  are  plentiful  evidences  in  that  work  itself, 
that  the  old  liturgy  was  not  ignored  or  rejected  by  its 
framers ;  nay,  that  it  was  to  be,  to  some  extent  at  least, 
incorporated  with  the  Assembly's  book.  We  find  pas- 
sages where  even  the  language  of  Knox's  ritual  is  pre- 
served ;  while  the  method  is  almost  always  the  same.* 

Here  the  record  of  Presbyterian  usage,  in  the  matter  of 
written  forms  of  worship,  must  end.  From  the  statements 
that  have  been  made,  it  will  be  seen,  that  this  historic 
testimony  of  the  Church  stands  unmistakably  in  favor  of 
a  discretionary  use  of  the  "  best  helps"  that  can  be  ob- 
tained for  the  performance  of  Divine  services.  At  the 
time  of  the  Keformation,  each  of  the  various  national 
branches  of  Presbyterianism  adopted  a  liturgy.  To  this 
fact,  there  is  not  a  solitary  exception.  And  further,  with 
but  one  exception,  each  of  the  national  Presbyterian 
Churches  of  Europe  has  retained,  down  to  the  present 
day,  with  greater  or  less  modification,  its  particular  lit- 
urgy. The  Church  of  Scotland,  which  for  a  hundred 
years  had  preserved  these  written  forms,  finally  laid  them 
aside,  not  of  her  own  choice  and  preference,  but  in  con- 
cession to  a  plan  of  uniformity  with  other  Churches,  in  the 
use  of  a  common  Directory  for  Worship. 

The  adoption  of  a  liturgy  is  peculiarly  consonant 
with  the  spirit  and  usage  of  the  Presbyterian  Church. 
That  a  body,  characterized  by  strict  and  scrupulous  ad- 
herence to  established  formulas  of  doctrine  and  discipline, 
should  make  full  provision  for  the  proper  celebration  of 
*  See  Appendix. 


xviii  Introduction. 

worship,  appears  most  suitable  and  natural.  And  although, 
in  the  Church  of  Scotland,  bitter  enmity  to  forms  of 
prayer  has  long  existed,  arising  out  of  arbitrary  attempts 
to  enforce  an  obnoxious  Hturgy,  in  times  of  civil  commo- 
tion, there  has  never  been  a  single  enactment  of  our 
Church  to  forbid  or  condemn  the  introduction  or  revival  of 
this  her  former  practice.  It  is  a  fact  of  no  little  meaning, 
that  when  the  Presbyterian  Church  in  this  country  was 
organized  on  a  national  basis,  there  was  a  proposal,  on 
the  part  of  influential  Divines,  to  introduce  a  discretionary 
form  of  public  prayer.  Such  a  form  was  prepared,  print- 
ed, and  presented  for  approval  to  the  Synod,  by  a  com- 
mittee duly  appointed,  and  was  advocated  by  some  of  the 
most  distinguished  ministers  of  the  period,  among  others, 
by  the  late  venerable  Ashbel  Green,  D.D.  In  the  present 
volume,  some  extracts  from  that  work  will  be  found. 

We  pass  from  this  survey  of  the  history  of  the  Re- 
formed Liturgies,  to  a  brief  examination  of  their  sti'ucture. 
Modelled  after  no  complicated  forms  produced  by  slow 
accumulation  in  previous  ages,  this  order  of  worship  is  at 
once  distinguished  for  the  simphcity  and  the  logical  per- 
fection of  its  arrangement.  A  sentence  of  Invocation,  upon 
the  utterance  of  which  the  people  rise,  begins  the  ordinary 
service  of  the  Lord's  Day.  The  Law  is  then  rehearsed ; 
and  the  worshipper,  having  heard  its  requirements,  is  in- 
vited to  draw  near,  and  acknowledge  his  sins  before  God. 
Then  the  Gospel  declaration  of  forgiveness  is  announced, 
for  the  comfort  of  the  contrite  believer.  This  penitential 
oflSce  is  preliminary  and  preparatory  to  the  act  of  Praise 


Introduction.  xix 

and  Adoration,  whicli  is  performed  by  the  entire  congrega- 
tion, in  the  choral  singing  of  the  Psalm.  Next,  the  Scrip- 
tures are  read,*  out  of  both  Testaments  ;  after  which,  the 
minister  offers  up  a  prayer  for  illumination  in  the  study  of 
God's  Word.  To  this  he  adds  any  special  supplication, 
growing  out  of  the  subject  of  discourse,  or  otherwise  appro- 
priate, concluding  with  a  general  Thanksgiving  and  the 
Lord's  Prayer.  The  Sermon  (preceded  by  a  hymn)  stands 
in  connection  with  the  reading  of  Scripture,  of  which  it  is 
properly  an  exposition  ;  and  with  the  prayer  for  illumina- 
tion, which  has  reference  to  this  exercise  of  meditation 
upon  the  "Word  of  God.  It  is  followed  by  the  Prayer  of 
Intercession,  the  highest  act  of  the  believer's  worship, 
and  that  in  which,  so  to  speak,  he  ventures  nearest  to  the 
Throne  of  Grace.  This,  with  the  Creed  and  Benediction, 
closes  the  ordinary  service,  when  the  Lord's  Supper  is  not 
celebrated.  Thus,  entering  the  Divine  Presence  with  invoca- 
tion, hearkening  to  the  commandments  of  the  Law,  joining 
in  the  confession* of  sins,  and  receiving  the  Gospel  assur- 

*  In  the  Genevan  Liturgy,  this  reading  of  Scripture  forms  an 
introductory  part  of  Divine  Service,  and  precedes  the  Law  and  con- 
fession of  sins.  But  that  arrangement,  it  was  justly  remarked  by  the 
Divines  of  Neuchatel,  in  their  admirable  revision  of  the  old  Liturgy, 
was  open  to  practical  objections,  and  was  a  deviation  from  the 
known  custom  of  the  Primitive  Church,  where  the  reading  of  Scrip- 
ture was  always  closely  followed  by  the  preaching.  "  It  is  by  these 
reasons  that  the  leaders  of  the  churches  of  this  State  have  thought 
themselves  indispensably  obliged  to  restore  the  reading  of  the  "Word 
of  God  in  their  service."  We  may  add,  that  all  the  Eeformed 
Churches  of  Great  Britain  and  this  country,  have,  in  this  respect, 
improved  upon  the  Genevan  practice ;  for  the  reading  of  Scripture 
couatitutea  with  tliem  a  central  fea^i3i^;gfjDlvine  worship. 

'Oc^   TE 


XX  Introduction. 

ance  of  forgiveness :  the  believer  has  been  prepared  to 
offer  up  the  sacrifice  of  song ;  "  My  lips  shall  utter  praise, 
when  Thou  hast  taught  me  Thy  statutes."  Next,  implor- 
ing Divine  help  in  the  study  of  the  Word,  he  listens  to  its 
announcement ;  and  then,  approaching  with  enlarged  de- 
sires the  mercy-seat,  he  urges  his  requests  in  behalf  of  the 
Universal  Church,  and  of  all  mankind  ;  and  finally,  joins  in 
that  common  profession  of  belief,  whereby  the  Church  of 
all  ages  declares  her  oneness  in  the  faith  of  the  Gospel. 

But  the  cumulative  order  of  this  service  would  be  mani- 
festly incomplete,  without  some  reference  to  the  Sacrament 
of  the  Lord's  Supper.  That  ordinance,  in  the  Primitive 
Church,  was  undoubtedly  celebrated  upon  every  Lord's 
Day ;  and  whatever  oflfices  of  praise  and  prayer  accom- 
panied it,  had  in  view  this  celebration  as  the  chief  part 
of  Divine  service.  In  the  Reformed  Worship,  not  less 
distinctly  than  elsewhere,  we  find  the  allusion  to  this  fact 
preserved.  The  Intercessory  Prayer  that  succeeds  the 
Sermon,  is  designed  to  be  followed  immediately  by  the 
Exhortation  before  the  Communion ;  and  in  contemplation 
of  this  crowning  ordinance,  remembrance  is  made  in  that 
prayer  of  all  the  scattered  members  of  the  body  of  Christ. 
This  was  customary  among  the  early  Christians  :  who,  in 
their  weekly  observance  of  the  sacred  Feast,  offered  up  like 
supplications  for  the  necessities  of  the  Church,  and  for 
all  mankind.  The  analogy  to  this  custom  is  maintained 
in  our  service,  not  only  by  the  location  of  the  Intercessory 
Prayer,  in  which  the  ordinary  service  culminates,  but  also 
by  a  particular  clause  inserted  in  the  last  petition.    Nor  is 


Introduction.  xxi 

it  less  observable  in  the  tenderness  and  fervency  of  that 
prayer,  increasing  with  each  request  presented,  for  the 
several  classes  of  men,  for  the  ministry  and  the  Church, 
tor  those  in  affliction,  for  persecuted  Christians ;  and  end- 
ing with  a  subdued  acknowledgment  of  guilt,  and  pro- 
fession of  surrender  to  the  service  of  God.  It  is  well 
known  that  our  Reformers,  while  acquiescing  in  the  prac- 
tice of  celebrating  the  Lord's  Supper  only  at  intervals 
of  several  months,  regarded  this  as  a  defect  of  the  times, 
and  strongly  recommended  a  return  to  the  primitive  usage 
of  frequent  communion. 

Considering,  therefore,  the  Communion  as  the  natural 
and  necessary  consummation  of  the  Order  of  Divine  Wor- 
ship, we  proceed  to  a  brief  analysis  of  that  Office.  It 
begins  with  a  prayer,  which  indeed  is  only  a  conclusion 
to  the  General  Intercession,  but  which  may  properly  be 
separated  from  it  by  the  singing  of  a  sacramental  hymn. 
Then  the  words  of  the  Institution  are  read,  from  1  Co- 
rinthians, xi. ;  and  a  short  address  is  made,  setting  forth 
the  nature  of  the  ordinance,  and  inviting  to  participation. 
Proceeding  from  this  preparatory  service  to  the  adminis- 
tration, the  minister  offers  up  the  Consecrating  Prayer, 
and  utters  the  sacramental  words,  while  breaking  the 
bread  and  pouring  out  the  wine.  In  the  distribution  of 
the  Elements,  appropriate  sentences  of  Scripture  are  re- 
peated ;  and,  after  the  Thanksgiving,  an  offering  of  alms 
for  the  poor  is  made,  when  the  service  ends  with  a  hymn 
and  the  Benediction.* 

*  The  hymn  universally  sung  in  the  continental  Churches,  on  this 
occasion,  is  a  paraphrase  of  the  song  of  Simeon,  Luke,  ii.  29-32. 


xadi  Introduction. 

We  can  not  more  fitly  end  this  examination  of  the 
Keformed  service,  than  in  the  words  of  Calvin,  as  trans- 
lated by  his  disciple,  John  Knox :  "  If  so  be  that  any 
would  marvel  why  we  follow  rather  this  order  than  any 
other,  in  the  administration  of  this  Sacrament,  let  him 
diligently  consider  that,  first  of  all,  we  utterly  renounce 
the  error  of  the  Papists.  Secondly,  we  restore  unto  the 
Sacrament  its  own  substance,  and  to  Christ  "His  proper 
place.  And  as  for  the  words  of  the  Lord's  Supper,  we 
rehearse  them,  not  because  they  should  change  the  sub- 
stance of  the  bread  or  wine,  or  that  the  repetition 
thereof,  with  the  intent  of  the  sacrificer,  should  make  the 
Sacrament  (as  the  Papists  falsely  believe) ;  but  they  are 
read  and  pronounced  to  teach  us  how  to  behave  ourselves 
in  that  action ;  and  that  Christ  might  witness  unto  our 
faith,  as  it  were,  with  His  own  mouth,  that  He  hath  or- 
dained these  signs  to  our  spiritual  use  and  comfort.  Wa 
do  first,  therefore,  examine  ourselves,  according  to  St. 
Paul's  rule,  and  prepare  our  minds,  that  we  may  be  wor- 
thy partakers  of  so  high  mysteries.  Then,  taking  bread, 
we  give  thanks,  break,  and  distribute  it,  as  Christ  our 
Saviour  hath  taught  us.  Finally,  the  administration  ended, 
we  give  thanks  again,  according  to  His  example.  So 
that  without  His  Word  and  warrant,  there  is  nothing  in 
this  holy  action  attempted." 

The  present  work  is  a  compilation  from  the  Liturgies 
which  were  prepared  by  Calvin,  Knox,  Bucer,  and  other 
Divines  of  the  Reformed  Church,  and  which  have  been 


Introduction.  xxiii 

adopted  in  the  various  branches  of  that  Church  on  the 
continent  of  Europe,  and  in  Great  Britain.  The  Liturgy 
of  Calvin,  being  the  original  formulary  upon  which  all  the 
others  were  draughted,  is  taken  as  the  basis  for  the  ordi- 
nary services  of  Divine  Worship  and  the  Administration  of 
the  Sacraments.  Selections  from  other  forms  are  ap- 
pended to  each  of  these  OfiBces,  for  alternate  use  or  occa- 
sional substitution.  The  Directory  of  Worship  of  the 
Presbyterian  Church  is  quoted  wherever  appropriate,  for 
the  exhibition  of  the  manner  of  performing  these  services ; 
and  the  more  essential  parts  are  given  in  full,  designated 
by  marks  of  quotation.  A  collection  of  Scriptural  prayers, 
and  of  prayers  from  other  sources,  adapted  to  special  occa- 
sions, concludes  the  work.  The  attempt  has  thus  been 
made  to  place  within  the  reach  of  the  ministers  and  laity 
of  the  Presbyterian  Church  a  complete  arrangement  of  the 
various  forms  of  worship  instituted  by  her  authority,  for 
the  proper  discharge  of  the  solemn  duties  of  the  sanctuary. 


■il^j 


-m'. 


A    TABLE 


PORTIONS    OF    HOLY    SCRIPTURE 


TO  BE  READ  IN  PUBLIC  WORSHIP. 


Heading  of  the  "Word  in  the  Congregation,  being  part  of  the  Public  Worship 
of  God,  wherein  we  acknowledge  our  dependence  upon  Him  and  subjection  to 
Him,  and  one  means  sanctified  by  Him  for  the  edifying  of  His  people,  is  to  be 
performed  by  the  Pastor  and  teacher. 

How  large  a  portion  shall  be  read  at  once,  is  left  to  the  wisdom  of  the  Min- 
ister ;  but  it  is  convenient  that  ordinarily  one  chapter  of  each  Testament  be 
read  at  every  meeting;  and  sometimes  more,  where  the  chapters  be  short,  or 
the  coherence  of  matter  requireth  it. 

It  is  requisite  that  all  the  Canonical  Books  be  read  over  in  order,  that  the 
people  may  be  better  acquainted  with  the  whole  body  of  the  Scriptures :  and 
ordinarily,  where  the  reading  in  either  Testament  endeth  on  one  Lord's  Day, 
it  is  to  begin  the  next. 

Directory  for  Worship,  ly  the  Westminster  Dimnes  :  §  2. 

The  following  order  has  been  prepared  to  facilitate  selection. 


MOENING  SeKVIOE. 


EvENiNO  Service. 


Sun- 
days. 

First  Portion. 

Second. 

First  Portion. 

Second. 

lGen.i. 

John  i.  1-18. 

Isa.     i.  1-20. 

Acts 

ii.  1-21. 

2 

ii. 

Luke  i.  26-56. 

ii. 

ii.  22-47. 

8 

iii. 

Matt.  i. 

V.  1-17. 

Vi. 

4 

vi. 

T.nke  ii.  1-20. 

vi. 

ix.  1-22, 

5 

vii. 

Matt  ii. 

vii.  10-26. 

xi.  1-18. 

6 

vUi. 

John  1. 19-51. 

ix. 

xvi.  14-40. 

7 

ix.  1-19. 

Matt.  iv. 

xi. 

xxvi. 

8 

xii. 

John  iii.  1-21. 

XXV. 

Rora. 

i.  1-25. 

9 

xxii. 

John  iv.  1-26. 

xxvi. 

iv. 

10 

xxviii. 

Luke  iv.  16-37. 

XXXV. 

V. 

11 

xxxvii.  l-li8. 

Luke  V.  1-26. 

xxxviii. 

vi. 

12 

xlii.  1-28. 

John  V.  19-47. 

xl. 

vU. 

18 

xliii. 

Matt.  xii.  1-21. 

xli. 

tiU. 

26 


A     TABLE. 


Morning  Sekvice. 


Evening  Sekvicb. 


^^^-  First  Portion.       Second. 

First  Portion. 

Second. 

14Gen.xlv. 

Matt.  V.  1-20. 

Isa. 

xlii. 

Eom. 

xii. 

15          xlvi.  1-7; 

Matt.  vi.  1-18. 

xliii. 

XV.  1-13. 

28-34;  and 

xlvii.  1-12. 

16          xlviii. 

Matt.  vi.  19-34. 

xliv. 

ICor. 

i.  1-25. 

17          xlix. 

Matt.  vii. 

xiv. 

ii. 

18  Ex.   ii. 

Matt.  xi. 

xlviii. 

iii. 

19          iii. 

Matt.  xii.  1-21. 

xlix. 

xii. 

20          V. 

Matt.  xiii.  1-30. 

li. 

xiii. 

21          xiL  1-86. 

Matt.  xiii.  33-58. 

Iii. 

xiv.  1-20. 

22          xiv. 

Matt.  ix.  18-38. 

lui. 

XV.  1-20. 

28           XV. 

Matt.  X.  1-20. 

liv. 

XV.  21-58. 

24          xvi.  1-19. 

Matt.  xiv.  14-36. 

Iv. 

2  Cor. 

iv. 

25          xl.  17-38. 

John  vi.  35-59. 

Mii. 

V. 

26  Deuti.  19-46. 

Matt.  xvi. 

lix. 

vi 

27          iv.  28-40. 

Matt.  xvii.  1-21. 

Ix. 

Gal. 

iii. 

28          ix. 

Matt,  xviii.  1-20. 

Ixi. 

Eph. 

i. 

29          xviii. 

Lulie  X.  1-24. 

Ixii. 

ii. 

80          xxxiii. 

John  vii.  14-31. 

Ixiii. 

iii. 

81Josli.iii. 

John  vii.  32-52. 

Ixiv. 

iv. 

82          vli. 

Luke  X.  25-42. 

Ixv. 

V. 

88          xxiv.  1-25, 

.  Luke  xi.  1-13. 

Jer. 

xiv.  7-22. 

Philip 

.  ii.  1-18. 

84Judg.ii. 

Luke  xii.  1-21. 

xvii.  5-27. 

Col. 

iii. 

85  Ruth  i. 

Luke  xii.  22-48. 

xxxi.  1-20. 

IThes 

.  V. 

861Sam.iii. 

John  ix.  1-25. 

xxxiii.  1-16. 

2  Thes 

.  ii. 

87          xii. 

John  X.  1-18. 

Lam. 

iii.  22-59. 

Heb. 

i. 

88          XV.  i-28. 

John  xi.  19-46. 

Ezek 

.  i. 

ii. 

89          xvi.  1-13. 

John  xii.  12-36. 

X. 

iii. 

40  2S&m.vii. 

John  xiii. 

xxxiii.  1-20. 

iv. 

41          xii.  1-23. 

John  xiv. 

xxxiv.  11-31 

_, 

X. 

42  1  Ki.  iii.  1-15. 

John  XV. 

xxxvii.  1-14 

;, 

xi. 

43          vi.  11-38. 

John  xvi. 

xliii.  1-12. 

xii. 

44          ix.  1-14. 

John  xvii. 

xlvii.  1-12. 

James 

ii. 

45          xvii. 

John  xviii.  1-27. 

Dan. 

iii. 

IPet. 

ii. 

46          xviii.  17-46.Luke  xxiii.  1-25. 

vi. 

1  John 

V. 

47          xix. 

Luke  xxiii.  26-49. 

ix. 

Revel 

,  i. 

'48  2Ki.ii. 

John  xix.  25-42. 

Amos  V.  1-15. 

iii. 

49           V.  1-19. 

John  XX.  1-18. 

Mic. 

iv. 

V. 

502Ch.  xxxvi.  l-21.Luke  xxiv.  13-35. 

vi. 

xix. 

61  Neh.  viii. 

John  XX.  19-31. 

Hab. 

iii. 

XX. 

52  Job    1. 

John  xxi. 

Zech 

.  xiii. 

xxi. 

53          xlii. 

Acts  i.  1-14. 

Mai. 

iii. 

xxil. 

THE  ._  ^'W- 

ORDER   OF   DIVINE  SERVICE 

FOR  .      ■ 

THE    LORD'S  DAY. 


ALMIGHTY  GOD,  who  of  Thy 
great  mercy  hast  gathered  us 
into  Thy  visible  Church :  Grant  that 
■we  may  not  swerve  from  the  purity 
of  Thy  worship ;  hut  so  honour  Thee 
both  in  spirit  and  in  outward  forms, 
that  Thy  Name  in  us  may  be  glorified, 
and  we  be  indeed  the  members  of 
Thine  Only-begotten  Son.  And  as 
He  hath  sanctified  Himself  for  our 
Bakes,  may  we  through  His  Spirit  be 
made  partakers  of  the  same  sanctifi- 
eation :  Until  at  length  He  shall  bring 
us  into  His  heavenly  Kingdom,  which 
He  hath  purchased  for  us  with  His 
own  blood.    Amen. 

Calvin. 


THE 

ORDER   OF   DIVINE    SERVICE 


ON 


THE  MORNING  OF  THE  LORD'S  DAY. 


The  congregation  being  assembled,  let  the  Minister  begin  with  one  or  more 

of  these  sentences  of  -0 

INVOCATION. 

/^UR  help  is  in  the  Name  of  the  Lord,  who  made 

^^     heaven  and  earth. 

Let  the  words  of  my  mouthy  and  the  meditation  of 
my  heart,  be  acceptable  in  Thy  sight,  0  Lord,  my 
Strength  and  my  Redeemer. 

0  send  out  Thy  light  and  Thy  truth :  let  them  lead 
me :  let  them  bring  me  unto  Thy  holy  hill,  and  to 
Thy  tabernacles:  then  will  I  go  unto  the  altar  of 
God,  unto  God  my  exceeding  joy. 

1  will  lift  up  mine  eyes  unto  the  hills,  from  whence 
Cometh  my  help :  my  help  cometh  from  the  Lord, 
which  made  heaven  and  earth. 


30        Order  op  Divine  Service 

Then  let  him  rehearse  the  Ten  Commandments  of 
THE   LAW. 

A  ND  God  spake  all  these  words,  saying,  I  am  the 
-^^  Lord  thy  God,  which  have  brought  thee  out  of 
the  land  of  Egypt,  out  of  the  house  of  bondage. 

Thou  shalt  have  no  other  gods  before  me. 

Thou  shalt  not  make  unto  thee  any  graven  image, 
or  any  likeness  of  any  thing  that  is  in  heaven  above, 
or  that  is  in  the  earth  beneath,  or  that  is  in  the  water 
under  the  earth :  thou  shalt  not  bow  down  thyself  to 
them,  nor  serve  them :  for  I  the  Lord  thy  God  am  a 
jealous  God,  visiting  the  iniquity  of  the  fathers  upon 
the  children  unto  the  third  and  fourth  generation  of 
them  that  hate  me  ;  and  showing  mercy  unto  thousands 
of  them  that  love  me,  and  keep  my  commandments. 

Thou  shalt  not  take  the  Name  of  the  Lord  thy  God 
in  vain,  for  the  Lord  will  not  hold  him  guiltless  that 
taketh  His  Name  in  vain. 

Kemember  the  Sabbath-day,  to  keep  it  holy.  Six 
days  shalt  thou  labour,  and  do  all  thy  work  :  but  the 
seventh  day  is  the  Sabbath  of  the  Lord  thy  God :  in  it 
thou  shalt  not  dp  any  work,  thou,  nor  thy  son,  nor  thy 
daughter,  thy  man-servant,  nor  thy  maid-servant,  nor 


MORNIN^G    OF    THE    LoRD's    DaY.        31 

thy  cattle,  nor  thy  stranger  that  is  within  thy  gates  : 
for  in  six  days  the  Lord  made  heaven  and  earth,  the 
sea,  and  all  that  in  them  is,  and  rested  the  seventh 
day  :  wherefore  the  Lord  blessed  the  Sabbath  day,  and 
,  hallowed  it. 

Honour  thy  father  and  thy  mother  :  that  thy  days 
may  be  long  upon  the  land  which  the  Lord  thy  God 
giveth  thee. 

Thou  shalt  not  kill. 

Thou  shalt  not  commit  adultery. 

Thou  shalt  not  steal. 

Thou  shalt  not  bear  false  witness  against  thy  neigh- 
bour. ' 

Thou  shalt  not  covet  thy  neighbour's  house,  thou 
shalt  not  covet  thy  neighbour's  wife,  nor  his  man- 
servant, nor  his  maid-servant,  nor  his  ox,  nor  his  ass, 
nor  any  thing  that  is  thy  neighbour's. 

TTEAR  also  the  Summary  of  the  Law  by  our  Lord 
-*-^     Jesus  Christ. 

Thou  shalt  love  the  Lord  thy  God  with  all  thy 
heart,  and  with  all  thy  soul,  and  with  all  thy  mind. 
This  is  the  first  and  great  commandment.  And  the 
second  is  like  unto  it,  Thou  shalt  love  thy  neighbour 


32        Or  DEE  OF  Divine  Service. 

as  thyself.      On  these  two  commandments  hang  all 
the  Law  and  the  Prophets. 

RESPONSE, 

To  be  said  or  sung  by  the  congregation. 

THE  Lord  our  God  be  with  us :  let  Him  not  leave 
us  nor  forsake  us :  that  He  may  incline  our  hearts 
unto  Him,  to  walk  in  all  His  ways,  and  to  keep  His 
commandments. 

invitat:ion. 

Then  let  the  Minister  say: 

IF  we  say  that  we  have  no  sin,  we  deceive  ourselves, 
and  the  truth  is  not  in  us. 
And  if  any  man  sin,  we  have  an  Advocate  with  the 
Father,  Jesus  Christ  the  Righteous. 

Let  us  therefore  draw  near   with  an  humble  and 
penitent  heart,  and  acknowledge  our  sins  before  God. 

confession  of  sin. 

A  LMIGHTY  and  Everlasting  God  !  we  acknowledge 
-^-*-  and  confess,  before  Thy  holy  Majesty,  that  we 
are  poor,  miserable  sinners,  conceived  and  born  in  in- 
iquity, prone  to  evil,  unable  of  ourselves  to  do  any 
good ;  and  that  by  continual  transgression  of  Thy  holy 


Morning  of  the  Lord's  Day.      33 

commandments,  we  have  incurred  Thy  righteous  sen- 
tence of  condemnation  and  death.  But,  0  Lord!  we 
do  repent,  and  are  sorry  for  our  offences ;  we  condemn 
ourselves  and  our  iniquities,  with  true  penitence,  be- 
seeching Thee  by  Thy  grace  to  help  our  infirmities. 
Have  mercy  upon  us,  0  God  !  Father  of  mercies !  for 
the  sake  of  Thy  dear  Son,  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord. 
Blot  out  our  sins;  pardon  all  our  transgressions; 
and  increase  daily  within  us  the  gifts  of  Thy  Holy 
Spirit :  to  the  end  that  we,  acknowledging  with  all  our 
hearts  our  own  unrighteousness,  may  be  touched  with 
lively  sorrow;  and  being  dead  unto  sin,  may  bring 
forth  those  fruits  of  righteousness  and  holiness,  which 
are  well-pleasing  unto  Thee :  Through  Jesus  Christ 
our  Lord. 

Here,  and  at  the  end  of  all  other  prayers,  let  the  congregation  say.  Amen. 
Then  let  the  Minister  add: 

TTEAR  now  the  gracious  words  of  our  Lord  Jesus 
-*--*-  Christ,  unto  all  that  truly  repent  and  turn  to 
Him: 

God  so  loved  the  world,  that  He  gave  His  Only- 
Begotten  Son,  that  whosoever  believeth  in  Him  should 

not  perish,  but  have  everlasting  life. 

2* 


34        Order  of  Divine  Service. 

Come  unto  me,  all  je  that  labour,  and  are  heavy 
laden,  and  I  will  give  you  rest. 

Him  that  cometh  to  me,  I  will  in  no  wise  cast  out. 

This  is  a  faithful  saying,  and  worthy  of  all  accep- 
tation, that  Christ  Jesus  came  into  the  world  to  save 
sinners. 

The  grace  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ  be  with  you 
all.     Amen. 

[Here  may  follow  the  reading  of  a  selection  from  the  Psalms,  by  the  Minister 
and  congregation  alternately,  where  such  is  the  practice.] 

Then  the  singing  of  a 

PSALM, 

or  Hymn,  of  Praise  and  Thanksgiving.     "  The  whole  congregation  should  bo 
famished  with  books,  and  ought  to  join  in  this  part  of  service."    Next  the 


out  of  the  Old  and  New  Testaments.  "How  large  a  portion  shall  be  read  at 
once,  is  left  to  the  wisdom  of  the  Minister :  but  it  is  convenient  that  ordinarily 
one  chapter  of  each  Testament  be  read  at  every  meeting;  and  sometimes 
more,  when  the  chapters  are  short,  or  the  coherence  of  matter  requireth  it." 
[See  the  Table  of  Portions  of  Scripture  to  be  read  in  Public  Worship.] 
"  The  Minister  may,  when  he  thinks  it  expedient,  expound  any  part  of  what 
is  read:  always  having  regard  to  the  time,  that  neither  reading,  singing,  pray- 
ing, preaching,  nor  any  other  ordinance,  be  disproportionate  the  one  to  the 
other,  nor  the  whole  rendered  too  short  or  too  tedious." 

Then  let  the  Minister  offer  up  a  prayer  of 
SUPPLICATION   AND   THANKSGIVING. 

11 /TOST  Gracious  God,   our  Heavenly  Father !    in 
-^^-*-     whom  alone  dwelleth  all  the  fulness  of  light  and 


.Morning  of  the  Lord's  Day.      35 

wisdom :  Illumine  our  minds,  we  beseech  Thee,  by  Thy 
Holy  Spirit,  in  the  true  understanding  of  Thy  Word. 
Give  us  grace  to  receive  it  with  reverence  and  humility 
unfeigned.  May  it  lead  us  to  put  our  whole  trust  in 
Thee  alone  :  and  so  to  serve  and  honour  Thee,  that  we 
may  glorify  Thy  Name,  and  edify  our  neighbours  by 
our  godly  example.  And  since  Thou  art  pleased 
to  number  us  among  Thy  people,  enable  and  dispose 
us  to  pay  Thee  the  love  and  homage  that  we  owe,  as 
children  to  our  Father,  and  as  servants  to  our  Lord. 


Here  may  be  introduced  whatever  special  matter  of  prayer  shall  be  thought 
appropriate,  whether  extemporaneous,  or  selected  from  the  occasional  prayers; 
concluding  with  a  general  thanksgiving. 

TTONOUR  and  praise  be  given  to  Thee,  0  Lord  God 
-^-^  Almighty,  for  all  Thy  mercy  and  loving-kindness 
shown  unto  us  Thy  people.  We  bless  Thee  for  the 
goodness  that  freely  chose  us  to  salvation  before  the 
world  began.  We  thank  Thee  for  creating  us  after 
Thine  own  image;  for  redeeming  us,  when  we  were 
lost,  with  the  precious  blood  of  Christ ;  for  sanctifying 
us  by  Thy  Spirit  in  the  revelation  and  knowledge  of 
Thy  Word ;  for  Thy  help  and  succour  in  our  necessities^ 
Thy  fatherly  comfort  in  our  tribulations ;  for  saving 


36        Order  OF  Divine  Service.    ^ 

us  in  dangers  of  body  and  soul,  and  giving  us  so  large 
a  time  of  repentance.  These  benefits,  0  most  Mer- 
ciful Father!  we  acknowledge  to  have  received  of 
Thy  goodness  alone ;  and  so  do  we  implore  Thy  grace 
continually  to  augment  our  thankfulness  toward  Thee, 
kindling  our  hearts  with  pure  and  fervent  love.  Suffer 
us  not  to  receive  Thy  Word  in  vain  ;  but  graciously 
assist  us  always,  in  heart,  word,  and  deed,  to  sanctify 
and  worship  Thy  holy  Name  :  Through  Jesus  Christ 
our  Lord.     Amen. 

Then  let  the  Mioister  and  people  say  together 
THE  lord's  prayer. 

/^UR  Father  which  art  in  heaven.  Hallowed  be  Thy 
^^  Name.  Thy  kingdom  come.  Thy  will  be  done 
in  earth,  as  it  is  in  heaven.  Give  us  this  day  our 
daily  bread.  And  forgive  us  our  debts,  as  we  forgive 
our  debtors.  And  lead  us  not  into  temptation,  but  de- 
liver us  from  evil :  For  Thine  is  the  kingdom,  and 
the  power,  and  the  glory,  for  ever.     Amen, 

After  this  prayer,  let  a  Hymn  be  sung  before  the 
SERMON. 


Morning  of  the  Lord's  Day.      37 

At  the  conclusion  of  wMch  the  following  prayer,  or  to  the  like  effect. 
INTERCESSION. 

A  LMIGHTY  God,  our  Heavenly  Father !  Thou 
■^^  hast  promised  to  grant  the  requests  of  those 
who  approach  Thee  in  the  Name  of  Thy  well-beloved 
Son;  by  whom  also  we  are  taught  to  assemble 
in  His  Name,  assured  that  He  will  be  present  in 
our  midst,  and,  by  His  intercession,  obtain  for  us 
all  things  that  we  shall  agree  on  earth  to  ask  Thee. 
Wherefore,  most  gracious  Father !  trusting  in  Thy 
blessed  promise,  we  draw  near  unto  Thee  through 
Him;  and  earnestly  pray  Thee,  for  His  sake,  that 
Thou  wilt  of  Thine  infinite  goodness  freely  pardon 
our  offences ;  and  so  attract  and  elevate  our  thoughts 
and  desires  unto  Thyself,  that  we  may  with  one 
heart  call  upon  Thee  for  those  things  which  are 
agreeable  to  Thy  just  and  righteous  will.  o...  .. 

f\  GOD !  who  hast  bidden  us  pray  for  those  in  au- 
-^  thority  among  men :  Bless,  we  entreat  Thee,  all 
rulers  and  magistrates,  unto  whom  Thou  hast  commit- 
ted the  administration  of  justice  ;  and  especially  Thy 
servants  who  bear  rule  in  this  land.  *May  it  please 
Thee  daily  to  increase  within  them  Thy  good  Spirit : 


38        Order  of  Divine  Service. 

that  with  true  faith  acknowledging  Jesus  Christ  Thy 
Son  our  Lord  to  be  King  of  kings,  and  Lord  of  lords, 
unto  whom  Thou  hast  given  all  power  in  heaven  and 
on  earth,  they  may  seek  to  honour  Thee,  and  exalt  Thy 
rule  in  their  dominions ;  and  so  govern  their  subjects, 
who  are  the  creatures  of  Thy  hand,  and  the  sheep  of 
Thy  pasture,  that  as  well  here  as  throughout  all  the 
earth,  Thy  people  being  kept  in  peace  and  quiet,  may 
serve  Thee  in  all  godliness  and  honesty 

A  LMIGHT Y  Saviour  I  We  pray  for  all  those  whom 
-^^  Thou  hast  appointed  Pastors  of  Thy  flock,  and 
intrusted  with  the  care  of  souls,  and  the  dispensing  of 
Thy  holy  Gospel.  Guide  them  by  Thy  Spirit,  that 
they  may  be  found  faithful  Ministers  of  Thy  glory. 
Let  them  ever  hold  this  end  in  view :  that  all  poor, 
wandering  sheep  may  be  gathered  in,  and  made  subject 
to  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  the  chief  Shepherd  and 
>Bishop  of  souls ;  to  the  end  that  they  may  daily  ad- 
vance and  grow  up  in  Him,  unto  all  righteousness  and 
holiness.  Deliver  Thy  Churches  from  corrupt  and 
false  teachers,  who  seek  only  their  own  glory  and 
gain. 


M' 


Morning  of  the  Loed's  Day.       39 

OST  gracious  God,  Father  of  mercies !  We  pray  for 
all  mankind :  that  as  Thou  wouldst  be  acknow- 
ledged as  the  Saviour  of  the  world,  in  the  redemption 
wrought  by  Thy  Son  Jesus  Christ,  all  those  who  are 
yet  strangers  to  Him,  in  darkness  and  captivity  to 
ignorance  and  error,  may  be  led  by  the  enlightening 
of  Thy  Spirit,  and  the  preaching  of  Thy  Gospel,  into 
the  way  of  salvation :  which  is,  to  know  Thee,  the 
only  true  God,  and  Jesus  Christ  whom  Thou  hast 
sent.  Grant  also  that  those  already  visited  with 
Thy  grace  may  continually  grow  in  all  goodness, 
being  enriched  with  Thy  spiritual  benedictions:  to 
the  end  that  we  all,  with  one  heart  and  one  mouth, 
may  worship  Thee,  giving  homage  and  praise  to  Thy 
Christ,  our  Lord,  Lawgiver,  and  King. 

r\  GOD  of  all  Comfort !  We  commend  to  Thee  those 
^  whom  Thou  art  pleased  to  chasten  with  any  cross 
or  tribulation ;  all  people  visited  with  pestilence,  war, 
or  famine ;  all  persons  afflicted  with  poverty,  imprison- 
ment, sickness,  banishment,  or  other  distress  of  body 
or  trouble  of  mind :  that  it  may  please  Thee  to  show 
them  Thy  fatherly  kindness,  chastening  them  for  their 
profit,  to  the  end  that  with  their  whole  hearts  they 


40        Order  of   Divine  Service. 

may  turn  unto  Thee,  and  being  converted,  receive 
perfect  consolation,  and  deliverance  from  all  their  woes. 

A  ND  especially  we  commend  to  Thee  our  brethren, 
-^■*-  who,  being  persecuted  by  the  enemies  of  Thy 
Gospel,  are  deprived  of  the  pasture  of  life,  and  the 
privilege  of  publicly  calling  upon  Thy  Name :  That 
it  may  please  Thee,  0  Father  of  mercies !  to  strengthen 
them  by  the  grace  of  Thy  Spirit,  so  that  they  may 
not  faint,  nor  fall  away,  but  may  continue  stedfast 
in  Thy  sacred  calling.  Succour  them,  help  them, 
even  as  Thou  knowest  their  need;  console  them  in 
their  trials,  preserve  them  in  Thy  safe  keeping,  against 
the  malice  of  their  foes ;  and  augment  in  them  all  the 
gifts  of  Thy  Spirit :  that  as  well  in  life  as  in  death 
they  may  glorify  Thee. 

"TIINALLY,  0  God  our  Father  !  Grant  also  unto  us 
-*-  who  are  here  assembled  in  the  Name  of  Thy 
Holy  Child  Jesus,  to  hear  His  Word  [and  to  celebrate 
His  Supper] ,  that  we  may  truly  and  unfeignedly  ac- 
knowledge our  lost  estate  by  nature,  and  the  con- 
demnation we  deserve  by  disobedient  lives.  And 
conscious  that  in  us  there  dwelleth  no  good,  and  that 


Morning  of  the    Lord  s  Day.       41 

our  flesh  and  blood  cannot  inherit  Thy  kingdom^  may 
we  with  entire  confidence  and  pure  affection  give 
ourselves^  up  to  Thy  dear  Son  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord 
and  only  Saviour  and  Redeemer  :  that  He,  dwelling 
in  us,  may  mortify  all  remaining  sin,  renewing  us  for 
that  better  life,  where  we  shall  perfectly  praise  and 
magnify  Thy  great  and  holy  Name,  world  without 
end.     Amen. 

Then  let  the  Minister  and  people  say  together 
THE    CREED. 

T  ORD,  increase  our  faith. 

-^  I  believe  in  God  the  Father  Almighty,  Maker 
of  heaven  and  earth :  and  in  Jesus  Christ  His  only 
Son,  our  Lord;  who  was  conceived  by  the  Holy 
Ghost,  born  of  the  Virgin  Mary ;  suffered  under  Pon- 
tius Pilate,  was  crucified,  dead,  and  buried ;  he  de- 
scended into  hell;*  the  third  day  He  rose  again  from 
the  dead ;  He  ascended  into  heaven,  and  sitteth  on  the 
right  hand  of  God  the  Father  Almighty ;  from  thence 
He  shall  come  to  judge  the  quick  and  the  dead.  1 
believe  in  the  Holy  Ghost ;  the  Holy  Catholic  Church, 
the  communion  of  saints ;  the  forgiveness  of  sins ;  the 

•  t.  c,  Continued  in  the  state  of  the  dead,  and  under  the  power  of  death, 
until  the  third  day. 


42       Order  of  Divine  Service. 

resurrection  of  the  body;    and  the  life  everlasting. 
Amen. 

Then  let  a  Hymn  be  sung,  after  which  (when  the  Lord's  Supper  is  not  to  be 
administered),  the  congregation  shall  be  dismissed  with  the 

BENEDICTION. 

nnHE  Lord  bless  thee,  and  keep  thee : 
-^      The  Lord  make  His  face  shine    upon  thee,  and 
be  gracious  unto  thee : 

The  Lord  lift  up  His  countenance  upon  thee,  and 
give  thee  peace. 

The  grace  of  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  and  the  love 
of  God,  and  the  communion  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  be 
•with  you  all.     Amen. 


OTHER   FORMS 

FOR  THE 

MORNING   SERVICE   ON   THE   LORD'S  DAY. 


THE   BEATITUDES, 

To  be  sometimes  read  in  place  of  the  Law. 

/^UR  Lord  Jesus  Christ  hath  said,  Blessed  are  the 
^  poor  in  spirit :  for  theirs  is  the  kingdom  of 
heaven. 

Blessed  are  they  that  mourn :  for  they  shall  be 
comforted. 

Blessed  are  the  meek:  for  they  shall  inherit  the 
earth. 

Blessed  are  they  which  do  hunger  and  thirst  after 
righteousness  :  for  they  shall  be  filled. 

Blessed  are  the  merciful :  for  they  shall  obtain 
mercy. 

Blessed  are  the  pure  in  heart :  for  they  shall  see 
God. 

Blessed  are  the  peace-makers :  for  they  shall  be 
called  the  children  of  God. 


44        Order  of  Divine  Service. 

Blessed  are  they  which  are  persecuted  for  right- 
eousness' sake  :  for  theirs  is  the  kingdom  of  heaven. 

RESPONSE. 

r^  OD  be  merciful  unto  us,  and  bless  us,  and  cause 
^^      His  face  to  shine  upon  us. 


To  be  sometimes  read  in  place  of  tlie  Law. 

TTEAR  the  words  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ : 
-*--'-     Except  your   righteousness    shall    exceed  the 
righteousness  of  the  Scribes  and  Pharisees,  ye  shall  in 
no  case  enter  into  the  kingdom  of  heaven. 

Be  ye  therefore  merciful,  as  your  Father  also  is 
merciful. 

Love  your  enemies ;  do  good  to  them  which  hate 
you ;  bless  them  that  curse  you ;  and  pray  for  them 
which  despitefully  use  you. 

When  thou  doest  alms,  let  not  thy  left  hand  know 
what  thy  right  hand  doeth  ;  that  thine  alms  may  be  in 
secret :  and  thy  Father,  which  seeth  in  secret.  Him- 
self shall  reward  thee  openly. 

And  when  thou  prayest,  enter  into  thy  closet,  and 
when  thou  hast  shut  thy  door,  pray  to  thy  Father 


Morning  of  the  Lord's  Day.      45 

which  is  in  secret :  and  thy  Father,  which  seeth  in  ae- 
cret,  shall  reward  thee  openly. 

When  thou  fastest,  anoint  thine  head,  and  wash  thy 
face  ;  that  thou  appear  not  unto  men  to  fast,  but  unto 
thy  Father  which  is  in  secret :  and  thy  Father,  which 
seeth  in  secret,  shall  reward  thee  openly. 

Lay  not  up  for  yourselves  treasures  upon  earth, 
where  moth  and  rust  doth  corrupt,  and  where  thieves 
break  through  and  steal : 

But  lay  up  for  yourselves  treasures  in  heaven, 
where  neither  moth  nor  rust  doth  corrupt,  and  where 
thieves  do  not  break  through  nor  steal.  For  where 
your  treasure  is,  there  will  your  heart  be  also. 

Take  no  thought,  saying.  What  shall  we  eat? 
or.  What  shall  we  drink?  or,  Wherewithal  shall 
we  be  clothed  ?  For  your  heavenly  Father  knoweth 
that  ye  have  need  of  all  these  things. 

But  seek  ye  first  the  kingdom  of  God,  and  His 
righteousness ;  and  all  these  things  shall  be  added 
unto  you. 

Judge  not,  and  ye  shall  not  be  judged ;  condemn 
not,  and  ye  shall  not  be  condemned ;  forgive,  and  ye 
shall  be  forgiven ;  give,  and  it  shall  be  given  unto 
you. 


46        Order  of  Divine  Service. 

Ask,  and  it  shall  be  given  you ;  seek,  and  ye  shall 
find  ;  knock,  and  it  shall  be  opened  unto  you. 

Therefore  all  things  whatsoever  ye  would  that  men 
should  do  to  you,  do  ye  even  so  to  them :  for  this  is 
the  Law  and  the  Prophets. 

RESPONSE. 

npHOU  art  my  portion,  0  Lord  :  I  have  said  that  I 
-■-     would  keep  Thy  words. 


confession  of  sin. 


I. 

{Invitation :)  After  those  days,  saith  the  Lord,  I 
will  put  My  laws  into  their  mind,  and  write  them  in 
their  hearts  :  and  their  sins  and  their  iniquities  will 
I  remember  no  more. 

Having  therefore  this  promise,  dearly  beloved,  let 
us  draw  near  with  a  true  heart,  in  full  assurance  of 
faith,  that  we  may  obtain  mercy,  and  find  grace  to  help 
in  time  of  need. 


M 


OST  Holy  God !  who  art  of  purer  eyes  than  to 
behold  iniquity,  who  condemnest  the  ungodly. 


Morning  of  the  Lord's  Day.      47 

impenitent,  and  unbelieving,  but  hast  promised  mercy 
through  Jesus  Christ  unto  all  that  repent  and  believe 
in  Him  :  "We  confess  that  we  were  conceived  in  sin, 
and  are  by  nature  children  of  wrath,  and  have  all 
sinned  and  come  short  of  Thy  glory.  Thou  hast  re- 
vealed unto  us  Thy  wonderful  love  in  Christ,  and  of- 
fered us  pardon  and  salvation  in  Him :  but  we  have 
resisted  Thy  Spirit,  and  neglected  so  great  salvation ; 
we  have  run  into  temptations ;  and  the  sin  we  should 
have  hated,  we  have  committed  in  Thy  sight,  both  se- 
cretly and  openly,  ignorantly  and  carelessly,  rashly 
and  presumptuously,  against  Thy  promises.  Thy  mer- 
cies, and  Thy  judgments.  Our  transgressions  are 
multiplied  before  Thee,  and  our  sins  testify  against  us ; 
if  Thou  deal  with  us  as  we  deserve.  Thou  wilt  cast  us 
away  from  Thy  sight.  Have  mercy  upon  us,  0  God ! 
be  reconciled  unto  us,  and  let  the  blood  of  Jesus 
Christ  cleanse  us  from  all  our  sins.  Take  us  for  Thy 
children,  and  give  us  the  Spirit  of  Thy  Son.  Oh  ! 
make  Thy  face  to  shine  upon  Thy  servants  ;  save  us 
from  our  sins,  and  from  the  wrath  to  come  ;  make  us 
a  peculiar  people  unto  Thee,  zealous  of  Thy  praise. 
We  ask  it  in  the  Name  of  our  blessed  and  only  Re- 
deemer.    Amen. 


48        Order  of  Divine  Service.        * 

II. 

{Invitation :)  If  we  confess  our  sins,  He  is  faith- 
ful and  just  to  forgive  us  our  sins,  and  to  cleanse  us 
from  all  unrighteousness. 

Let  us  therefore  draw  near  with  an  humble  and 
penitent  heart,  and  acknowledge  our  sins  before  God. 

"TTfE  are  not  worthy,  0  Lord!  to  come  into  Thy 
'  ^  presence,  by  reason  of  our  manifold  offences. 
For  we  were  conceived  in  sin,  and  in  iniquity  was 
every  one  of  us  born.  All  the  days  of  our  life'  we 
have  continued  to  follow  the  corruption  of  our  fleshly 
nature.  If  Thou,  Lord,  shouldst  enter  into  judgment 
with  Thy  servants,  just  occasion  hast  Thou  to  punish 
not  only  this  our  mortal  flesh,  but  our  bodies  and  souls 
for  ever.  But  Thou,  0  Lord  !  art  a  merciful  God,  a 
loving  and  favourable  Father,  to  all  that  unfeignedly 
turn  unto  Thee  from  their  sins.  Wherefore  we  most 
humbly  beseech  Thee,  for  the  sake  of  Christ,  Thy 
Son,  show  Thy  mercy  upon  us.  Forgive  us  all  our 
offences.  Endue  us  with  Thy  Holy  Spirit.  Sanctify 
us  wholly ;  and  grant  us  Thy  grace,  that  in  all  the 
days  of  our  lives  hereafter,  we  may  study  to  serve  and 


Morning  of  the   Lord's  Day.       49 

please  Thee,  in  word  and  in  deed,  through  our  only 
Lord  and  Master,  Jesus  Christ.     Amen. 

III. 

{Invitation ;)  Beloved,  the  Scriptures  declare.  He 
that  covereth  his  sins  shall  not  prosper ;  but  whoso 
confesseth  and  forsaketh  them  shall  have  mercy. 

Let  us  therefore  come  boldly  unto  the  throne  of 
grace,  that  we  may  obtain  mercy,  and  find  grace  to 
help  in  time  of  need.  >  - 

A  LMIGHTY,  Everlasting  God  I  Father  of  our 
-^  Lord  Jesus  Christ!  Creator  of  all  things, 
Judge  of  all  men !  We  acknowledge  and  lament  in 
Thy  sight,  that  we  were  conceived  and  born  in  sin,  and 
are  prone  to  evil,  and  unfit  for  any  good.  We  have 
broken  Thy  holy  law,  times  and  ways  without  num- 
ber, by  contempt  of  Thee  and  Thy  Word,  by  distrust 
of  Thy  grace,  and  vain  confidence  in  ourselves  and  in 
the  world,  by  thoughts  and  works  grievously  ofiending 
Thy  holy  Majesty,  and  sinning  against  our  neighbour. 
Thus  have  we  buried  ourselves  more  and  more  deeply 
in  spiritual  death.     But  we  do  earnestly  repent,  and 

are  sorry  for  these  our  misdoings.     Have  mercy  upon 

3^ 


50       Ordee  of  Divine  Service. 

us,  most  Gracious  and  Merciful  Father,  for  the  sake 
of  Thy  Son,  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.  Forgive  us  all 
that  is  past.  Grant  us  and  increase  within  us  Thy 
Holy  Spirit :  who  shall  teach  us  penitently  to  ac- 
knowledge our  sins,  and  being  touched  with  lively  sor- 
row, by  true  faith  to  obtain  remis&ion  of  them  in 
Christ.  So  that  daily  dying  unto  sin,  in  newness  of 
life  we  may  serve  and  please  Thee,  to  the  glory  of 
Thy  Name  and  the  edification  of  Thy  Church : 
Through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 


THANKSGIVING. 


T. 

11 /TOST  Glorious  God!  Accept,  through  Thy  be- 
-^'-*-  loved  Son,  our  thanksgiving  for  Thine  unspeak- 
able love  and  goodness.  Thou  art  the  Father  of 
Mercies  and  the  God  of  all  Consolation,  full  of  com- 
passion, forgiving  iniquity,  transgression,  and  sin. 
For  Thy  glory  Thou  didst  create  us  after  Thine 
image ;  and  when  we  forsook  Thee,  Thou  didst  not 
leave  us  in  the  hands  of  death,  but  didst  so  love  the 
world  as  to  give  Thy  Son  to  be  our  Saviour.  We 
thank  Thee  for  His  death,  that  saveth  us  from  death. 


Morning  of  the  Lord's  Day.      61" 

and  for  His  life,  that  opened  unto  us  the  way  to  life.  We 
thank  Thee  for  the  new  and  better  Covenant ;  for  Thy 
great  and  precious  promises  ;  that  Thou  hast  given  us 
eternal  life  in  Christ ;  that  we  have  the  clear  and  sure 
revelation  of  Thy  will  in  the  Holy  Scriptures ;  that 
Thou  hast  founded  Thy  Church  upon  Apostles  and 
Prophets,  Jesus  Christ  Himself  being  the  chief  corner- 
stone. We  thank  Thee  that  Thou  hast  communicated 
to  Thy  ministers  the  Word  of  reconciliation ;  that  by 
them  Thou  hast  opened  our  eyes,  and  turned  us  from 
darkness  unto  light ;  that  Thou  hast  adopted  us  to  be 
Thy  sons,  and  joint-heirs  with  Christ,  and  made  us 
His  members,  and  given  us  His  Spirit.  All  Thy 
paths,  0  Lord  !  are  mercy  and  truth  to  such  as  keep 
Thy  covenant.  Oh !  continue  Thy  loving-kindness 
unto  us,  that  we  may  rejoice  and  be  glad  in  Thee  all 
our  days.  Guide  us  by  Thy  counsel,  and  afterward 
receive  us  to  Thy  glory  :  where,  with  all  the  blessed 
host  of  heaven,  we  may  behold,  admire,  and  perfectly 
and  joyfully  praise  Thee,  our  most  glorious  Creator, 
Redeemer,  and  Sanctifier,  for  ever  and  ever.     Amen. 


52        Okder  of  Divine  Service. 

II. 
r\  LORD  our  God,  we  lift  up  our  hearts  unto  Thee, 
^  in  grateful  acknowledgment  of  all  Thy  mercies. 
We  praise  Thee  as  the  source  of  all  blessing,  full  of 
compassion  and  goodness  unto  the  children  of  men. 
We  thank  Thee  that  Thou  hast  formed  us  reasonable 
creatures,  capable  of  knowing  and  serving  Thee.  We 
bless  Thee  for  Thy  preserving  care  over  us,  and  for 
all  our  temporal  enjoyments.  Above  all  we  praise 
Thee,  0  most  Merciful  Father,  for  Thy  spiritual 
blessings  in  Christ  Jesus  ;  for  the  Holy  Spirit  and  His 
influences ;  for  the  Covenant  of  Grace  and  all  the 
precious  promises  thereof;  for  Thy  Word,  for  the 
Gospel  ministry,  and  all  Thine  ordmances.  For  these 
benefits  we  bless  Thee,  0  God,  the  Father,  the  Son, 
and  the  Holy  Ghost;  our  Creator,  Redeemer,  and 
Sanctifier.  And  now,  Lord,  we  commit  ourselves  to 
Thee ;  we  hope  in  Thy  mercies,  and  we  wait  for  Thy 
salvation.  Accept  our  worship,  and  forgive  our  sins, 
in  the  Name  of  our  crucified  and  exalted  Redeemer, 
Jesus  Christ :  unto  whom,  with  the  Father  and  the 
Spirit  of  all  Grace,  be  ascribed  glory,  honour,  domin- 
ion, and  praise,  for  ever  and  ever.     Amen. 


Morning  of  the  Lord's  Day.       53 

-\ . 

HI. 
r\  GOD  !  Thy  glory  is  great  in  all  the  Churches, 
^^  and  the  praises  of  Thy  Name  resound  in  the  as- 
semblies»of  Thy  saints.  We  thy  servants  would  hum- 
ble ourselves  before  Thee.  "We  worship  Thine  infinite 
Majesty.  We  celebrate  Thy  wisdom,  power,  and 
goodness,  that  shine  forth  in  the  works  of  creation 
and  redemption  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.  We 
bless  Thee  for  all  temporal  and  spiritual  good  that  we 
continually  receive  at  Thy  bountiful  hands.  But 
more  especially,  with  all  Thy  people  assembled  this 
day,  we  praise  Thee  that  Thou  didst  send  into  the 
world  Thy  Son  to  save  us  ;  and  having  delivered  Him 
up  for  our  offences,  didst  raise  Him  again  for  our 
justification ;  and  through  His  glorious  resurrection 
hast  given  us  the  blessed  hope  of  everlasting  life.  0 
Lord !  may  these  our  thanksgivings  come  up  with 
acceptance  before  Thy  throne.  Make  us  worthy  at 
the  last  day  to  have  part  in  the  resurrection  of  the 
lust,  and  the  glory  of  the  kingdom  of  heaven  :  whither 
Jesus  the  Forerunner  is  for  us  entered ;  where  now 
He  lives  and  reigns,  and  is  worshipped  and  glorified, 
with  Thee  and  the  Hply  Ghost,  God  blessed  for  ever. 
Amen. 


54        Order  of  Divine  Service, 
intercession. 

'  -if,  ■  .1. 

A  LMIGHTY  and  most  merciful  Father,, who  by 
-^^  Thy  holy  Apostle  hast  taught  us  to  make 
our  prayers  and  supplications  for  all  men :  We 
beseech  Thee  to  lead  such  as  are  yet  ignorant,  from 
error  to  the  pure  understanding  of  Thy  truth  ;  so  that 
all  mankind  may  learn,  with  one  consent,  to  worship 
Thee  their  only  God  and  Saviour.  Give  grace  to  all 
pastors  and  ministers  of  Thy  holy  Word,  unto  whom 
Thou  hast  committed  the  charge  of  Thy  chosen 
people,  that  they  may  both  in  life  and  doctrine  be 
found  faithful,  setting  only  before  them  Thy  glory ; 
and  that  by  them  all  poor  sheep  that  wander  and  go 
astray  may  be  gathered  and  brought  home  to  Thy  fold. 
And  because  the  hearts  of  rulers  are  in  Thy  hand, 
we  beseech  Thee  to  guide  and  govern  all  those  unto 
whom  Thou  hast  committed  the  sword.  Especially,  0 
Lord  I  according  to  our  bounden  duty,  we  entreat 
Thee  to  bless  those  in  authority  in  this  land.  Let 
Thy  fatherly  favour  so  preserve  them,  let  Thy  Holy 
Spirit  so  direct  their  minds,  that  they,  may  execute 
their  office  to  the  maintenance  of  pure  religion,  and 


Morning  of  the  Lord's  Day.      55 

the  punishment  of  evil-doers,  according  to  the  precise 
rule  of  Th  J  holy  Word. 

And  for  that  we  be  all  members  of  the  mystical 
Body  of  Christ  Jesus,  we  make  our  requests  unto 
Thee,  0  heavenly  Father  !  for  such  as  are  afflicted 
with  any  cross  or  tribulation,  as  war,  plague,  famine, 
poverty,  sickness,  or  any  other  kind  of  Thy  chastise- 
ments, whether  it  be  grief  of  body  or  unquietness  of 
mind  :  that  it  may  please  Thee  to  give  them  patience 
and  constancy,  until  Thou  send  them  full  deliverance 
out  of  all  their  woes. 

And  finally,  0  Lord !  we  most  humbly  beseech 
Thee  to  show  Thy  great  mercies  upon  those  our  breth- 
ren, who  may  be  persecuted,  cast  into  prison,  and 
condemned  to  death,  for  the  testimony  of  Thy  Truth  : 
and  though  they  be  utterly  destitute  of  all  man's  aid, 
yet  let  Thy  sweet  comfort  never  depart  from  them ; 
but  so  inflame  their  hearts  with  Thy  Holy  Spirit, 
that  they  may  boldly  and  cheerfully  abide  such  trial 
as  Thy  godly  wisdom  shall  appoint.  And  may  all 
Thine  afflicted  people  so  serve  and  follow  Thee,  that 
at  length,  as  well  by  their  death  as  by  their  life,  the 
kingdom  of  Thy  Son  Jesus  Christ  may  increase 
and  shine  throughout  the  world. 


56        Order  OF  Divine  Service. 

These  graces,  0  heavenly  Father  !  and  all  others 
that  Thou  knowest  to  be  expedient  for  us,  and  for  all 
mankind,  we  ask  in  the  Name  of  our  Sovereign  Mas- 
ter, Christ  Jesus,  Thy  well-beloved  Son  :  and  for  His 
sake  also,  we  beseech  Thee  to  grant  us  perfect  con- 
tinuance in  the  lively  faith  of  Thy  Universal  Church, 
whereof  we  make  our  confession,  saying  : 

I  believe  in  God,  etc. 

II. 
r\  MOST  Holy,  Blessed,  and  Glorious  Trinity! 
^  Father,  Son,  and  Holy  Ghost !  Three  Persons 
and  one  God  ;  our  Creator,  Redeemer,  and  Sanctifier ; 
our  Lord,  our  Governor,  and  Father  !  hear  us,  and 
have  mercy  upon  us  ! 

0  Lord  our  Saviour  I  God  and  man ;  Who,  having 
assumed  our  nature,  by  Thy  sufferings,  death,  and 
burial,  wast  made  a  ransom  to  take  away  the  sins  of 
the  world ;  who,  being  raised  from  the  dead,  ascended 
and  glorified,  art  made  Head  over  all  things  to  the 
Church :  We  beseech  Thee  to  hear  us,  and  have 
mercy  upon  us.  Make  sure  to  us  our  calling  and 
election,  our  unfeigned  faith  and  repentance  ,•  that 
being  justified  and  made  the  sons  of  God,  we  may 


Morning  of  the  Lord's  Day.      57 

liave  peace  with  Him  as  our  reconciled  God  and 
Father: 

Let  Thy  Holy  Spirit  sanctify  us,  and  dwell  in  our 
hearts,  and  cause  us  to  deny  ourselves,  and  to  give 
ourselves  entirely  to  Thee. 

As  the  world  was  created  for  Thy  glory,  let  Thy 
Name  be  glorified  throughout  the  world.  Let  self- 
love,  and  pride,  and  vain-glory  be  destroyed.  Make 
us  to  love  Thee,  fear  Thee,  and  trust  in  Thee  with  all 
our  hearts,  and  live  to  Thee. 

Let  all  mankind  subject  themselves  to  Thee,  their 
King.  Let  the  kingdoms  of  the  world  become  the 
kingdoms  of  the  Lord,  and  of  His  Christ.  Let 
atheists,  idolaters,  Mohammedans,  Jews,  and  all  un- 
godly people  be  converted.  Send  forth  meet  labourers 
into  the  harvest,  preserve  and  bless  them  in  their 
work,  and  let  the  Gospel  be  preached  throughout  all 
the  world. 

Unite  all  Christians  in  Jesus  Christ,  the  true  and 
only  universal  Head,  in  the  true  Christian  and 
Catholic  faith  and  love.  Cast  out  heresies  and  cor- 
ruptions, heal  divisions,  let  the  strong  receive  the 
weak,  and  bear  their  infirmities. 

Have  mercy  upon  our  rulers ;  let  them  fear  Thee, 
3* 


58        Order  of   Divine   Service. 

and  be  ensamples  of  piety  and  temperance,  haters  of 
injustice,  covetousness,  and  pride,  and  defenders  of  the 
innocent.  Let  every  soul  be  subject  to  the  higher 
powers,  and  not  resist ;  let  them  obey  all  in  authority, 
not  only  for  wrath,  but  for  conscience'  sake. 

Give  all  Thy  Churches  able,  holy,  faithful  Pastors, 
that  may  soundly  and  diligently  preach  Thy  Word, 
and  guide  Thy  flock  in  ways  of  righteousness  and 
peace. 

Keep  us  from  atheism,  idolatry,  and  rebellion 
against  Thee ;  from  infidelity,  ungodliness,  and  sen- 
suality ;  from  security,  presumption,  and  despair. 

Keep  us  from  murder  and  violence,  and  hurtful, 
passionate  words  and  actions.  Keep  us  from  all  un- 
cleanness ;  from  injustice,  false  witness,  and  deceit ; 
from  slander  and  uncharitable  censure.  Keep  us  from 
coveting  any  thing  that  is  our  neighbour's.  Cause 
us  to  love  Christ  in  His  members  with  a  pure  and 
fervent  love ;  to  love  our  enemies,  and  to  do  good  to 
all. 

Give  us  needful  sustenance,  and  contentment  there- 
with. Bless  our  labours,  and  the  fruits  of  the  earth 
in  their  season ;  and  send  us  such  temperate  weather 
as  may  tend  thereunto.     Deliver   all  Thy  servants 


Morning  of  the  Lord's  Day.      59 

from  sickness,  want,  or  other  distresses,  that  would 
hinder  them  from  Thy  service.  When  we  sin,  restore 
us  by  true  repentance  and  faith  in  Christ.  May  we 
loathe  ourselves  for  our  transgressions ;  forgive  them 
all,  and  accept  us  in  Thy  well-beloved  Son.  Save  us 
from  the  punishment  that  our  sins  deserve.  Convert 
our  enemies,  persecutors,  and  slanderers.  Cause  us 
to  watch  against  temptation,  to  resist  and  overcome 
the  world,  the  flesh,  and  the  devil.  Defend  us  and 
all  Thy  people  from  the  enmity  and  rage  of  Satan ; 
and  preserve  us  to  Thy  heavenly  Kingdom. 

For  Thou  only  art  the  Universal  King  ;  all  power 
is  Thine  in  heaven  and  in  earth ;  of  Thee,  and 
through  Thee,  and  to  Thee  are  all  things ;  and  the 
glory  shall  be  Thine  for  ever.     Amen. 

I  believe  in  God,  etc. 

^  III. 
f\  LORD  our  God,  who  hast  commanded  us  to  make 
^  prayers  and  supplications  for  all  men  :  We  pre- 
sent ourselves  before  Thy  throne  to  offer  up  our  re- 
quests in  behalf  of  all  classes  and  conditions  of  our 
race.  Thou,  Lord,  who  art  the  Maker  and  Father  of 
mankind,  we  beseech  Thee  for  the  peace  of  the  whole 


60        Order  of  Divine  Service. 

world,  and  the  salvation  of  all  people.  Deliver  from 
their  blindness  the  heathen,  Mohammedans,  and  all 
unbelievers ;  and  vouchsafe,  according  to  Thj  promises, 
to  procure  the  conversion  of  Thine  ancient  people,  the 
Jews  :  that  all  nations  may  know  and  worship  Thee, 
and  Jesus  Christ  whom  Thou  hast  sent.  King  of 
kings,  Lord  of  lords,  we  pray  Thee  for  all  rulers  and 
other  persons  in  offices  of  dignity  and  trust.  Give  the 
knowledge  of  Thyself  to  such  as  have  it  not :  and  im- 
part Thy  grace  to  them  that  know  Thee,  that  they 
may  use  their  authority  to  the  furtherance  of  Thy 
glory.  Especially  we  pray  for  those  who  are  set  in 
authority  over  us.  Grant  them  long  life  and  pros- 
perity, wise  counsel  and  good  success.  Bless  the 
people  of  this  commonwealth  in  all  their  interests, 
civil  and  religious.  Diffuse  among  them  the  spirit  of 
wisdom  and  understanding,  the  spirit  of  knowledge 
and  the  fear  of  Thy  Name  :  that  order  and  harmony 
may  prevail,  and  that  we  may  lead  a  quiet  and  peace- 
able hfe  in  all  godliness  and  honesty. 

We  present  to  thee,  0  Lord,  our  prayers  for  the 
necessities  of  Thy  holy  Church  spread  abroad  through- 
out the  earth.     Be  pleased  to  protect,  enlarge,   and 
^    eanctify  it  more  and  more.     Deliver  the  churches  that 


Morning  of  the  Lord's  Day.       61 

are  persecuted.  Remove  the  errors,  scandals,  and  di- 
visions that  distract  Christendom,  and  unite  all  Chris- 
tians by  the  bonds  of  truth,  of  godliness,  and  of  peace. 
Grant  especially  Thy  blessings  upon  the  churches  of 
this  land,  and  the  churches  in  this  place :  bless  the 
famihes  composing  them :  cause  righteousness,  and  all 
holy  virtues,  to  flourish  in  our  midst.  - 

We  pray  Thee,  0  God,  for  all  the  pastors  of  Thy 
Church ;  sanctify  them,  enlighten  them,  and  aug- 
ment in  them  the  gifts  needful  for  the  ^promotion  of 
Thy  kingdom,  and  the  salvation  of  souls  intrusted  to 
their  care.  Raise  up  everywhere,  and  especially 
among  ourselves,  faithful,  zealous,  humble  ministers, 
lovers  of  truth  and  of  peace.  And  to  this  end 'impart 
Thy  grace  and  Thy  fear  unto  all  that  are  preparing  to 
serve  Thee  in  the  ministry  of  Thy  Word. 

0  God  of  Mercy,  have  pity  on  the  nations  that  are 
afflicted  by  war,  or  any  other  scourge ;  and  upon  all 
persons  in  any  kind  of  suffering.  We  commend  to 
Thy  goodness  the  widows,  the  orphans,  the  poor,  the 
strangers,  the  friendless  ;  those  that  are  journeying  ; 
those  that  endure  persecution  for  Thy  Gospel;  all 
persons  distressed  or  diseased  in  mind;  the  infirm, 
the  sick,  the  dying ;  and  especially  our  brethren  who 


62        Order  of  Divine  Service. 

are  members  of  this  church  [and  who  desire  our 
prayers].  Assist  them  in  their  several  necessities, 
whether  of  body  or  Of  soul ;  and  give  them  a  happy 
issue  out  of  all  their  troubles. 

Lord,  we  beseech  Thee  for  all  Thy  children  :  for  all 
that  seek  Thee  in  sincerity  of  heart,  and  labour  to 
promote  their  own  salvation  and  that  of :  their  fellow- 
men  ;  for  all  that  are  engaged  in  works  of  piety,  and 
enterprises  for  the  advancement  of  Thy  Kingdom. 
Confirm  those  that  are  weak  in  the  Faith  ;  and  to  all 
that  are  yet  in  their  sins,  under  condemnation  of  Thy 
law,  give  true  repentance  and  conversion  unto  Thee. 

Look  favourably  upon  this  community.  Grant  us 
always*  that  which  may  be  needful  for  our  sustenance  ; 
and  enable  us  to  serve  Thee  with  sobriety,  thankful- 
ness, and  love.  Deliver  us  from  our  sins ;  preserve 
us  from  wicked  thoughts,  from  unbelief,  hypocrisy, 
and  whatever  is  opposed  to  Thy  holy  will.  0  Merci- 
f\il  God,  prevent  us  ever  by  Thy  grace,  and  further 
us  continually  by  Thy  Spirit ;  put  in  our  minds  right 
purposes  and  pure  desires,  perfect  submission  to  Thy 
providence,  fervent  love  to  Thee,  and  charity  that 
shall  incline  us  to  love  and  edify  one  another.  De- 
tach our  hearts  from  this  world  of  vanity,  and  help  us 


Morning  of  the  Lord's  Day.      63 

to  raise  them  unto  heaven,  where  our  treasure  is.  So 
that  living  in  watchfulness  and  prayer,  we  may  spend 
our  days  in  Thy  peace,  looking  for  the  glorious  ap- 
pearing of  our  Lord:  that  when  He  shall  come  to 
judge  the  world,  we  may  stand  in  Thy  presence  with- 
out shame. 

Give  ear,  0  Lord,  unto  the  voice  of  those  who  have 
now  offered  up  their  prayers  unto  Thee :  reject  not  the 
unworthy  supplications  of  Thy  servants  ;  but  grant  us 
the  blessings  we  have  asked,  and  all  other  things  ne- 
cessary for  us,  in  the  Name  of  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord  : 
unto  whom,  with  the  Father,  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  be 
honour  and  praise  for  ever.     Amen. 

Lord  !  increase  our  faith. 

I  believe  in  God,  etc. 


THE 

ORDER  OF  DIVINE   SERVICE 


ON 


THE  EVENING  OF  THE  LORD'S  DAY. 


The  congregation  being  assembled,  let  the  Minister  begin  with  the  reading 
of  one  of  these  passages  of  Scripture,  or  some  other,  containing  a  promise  of 
the  Divine  presence. 

PREFACE. 

rpHUS  saith  the  High  and  Lofty  One  that  in- 
-■-  habiteth  eternity,  whose  name  is  Holy :  I  dwell 
in  the  high  and  holy  place,  with  him  also  that  is  of  a 
contrite  and  humble  spirit,  to  revive  the  spirit  of  the 
humble,  and  to  revive  the  heart  of  the  contrite  ones. 

And  it  shall  come  to  pass  in  the  last  days,  saith 
God,  I  will  pour  out  of  my  Spirit  upon  all  flesh ;  on  my 
servants  and  on  my  handmaidens  I  will  pour  out,  in 
those  days,^of  my  Spirit :  and  it  shall  come  to  pass, 
that  whosoever  shall  call  on  the  name  of  the  Lord, 
shall  be  saved. 

Where  two  or  three  are  gathered  together  in  My 


Evening  of  the  Lord's  Day.     65 

name,  saith  the  Lord,  there  am  I  in  the  midst  of 
them;  and  whatsoever  ye  shall  ask  in  My  name, 
that  will  I  do,  that  the  Father  may  be  glorified  in 
the  Son. 

Christ  is  not  entered  into  the  holy  places  made 
with  hands,  which  are  the  figures  of  the  true ;  but 
into  heaven  itself,  now  to  appear  in  the  presence  of 
God  for  us. 

Then  let  Mm  add  this 
INVITATION. 

TTAVING  therefore  this  promise,  dearly  beloved, 
-'-'-  let  us  draw  near  with  a  true  heart,  in  full 
assurance  of  £iith,  and  make  known  our  requests 
unto  God. 

Or  this: 

Let  us  therefore  come  boldly  unto  the  throne  of 
grace,  that  we  may  obtain  mercy,  and  find  grace  to 
help  in  time  of  need. 

INVOCATION. 

A  LMIGHTY  God!  who  hast  promised  to  be  prc- 
-^  sent  with  Thy  people,  and  to  grant  their  re- 
quests in  the  Name  of  Thy  well-beloved  Son,  regard 
us,  we  humbly  beseech  Thee,  with  Thy  favour,  and  for 


66       Order  of  Divine  Service. 

the  sake  of  Him  who  is  our  onlj  Saviour  and  Me- 
diator with  Thee,  fulfil  Thy  promise  in  our  behalf; 
that  our  thoughts  being  lifted  up,  and  our  desires 
drawn  forth  unto  Thee,  we  may  render  Thee  acceptable 
worship  :  Through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.     Amen. 

Then  let  the  Minister  ajid  people  say  together 
THE   lord's   prayer. 

r\UR  FATHER  which  art  in  heaven.  Hallowed 
^  be  Thy  name.  Thy  kingdom  come.  Thy  will 
be  done  in  earth,  as  it  is  in  heaven.  Give  us  day 
by  day  our  daily  bread.  And  forgive  us  our  debts, 
as  we  forgive  our  debtors.  And  lead  us  not  into 
temptation,  but  deliver  us  from  evil:  For  Thine  is 
the  kingdom,  and  the  power,  and  the  glory,  for  ever. 
Amen. 

[Here  may  follow  the  reading  of  a  selection  from  the  Psalms,  by  the  Minister 
and  congregation  alternately,  where  such  is  the  practice.] 

Then  the  singing  of  a .  , 

PSALM, 

Or  Hymn,  of  Praise  and  Thanksgiving. 
Next  the 

READING   OF   HOLY   SCRIPTURE 

out  of  the  Old  and  New  Testaments. 

[See  the  Tahle  of  Portions  of  Scripture  to  be  read  in  Public  Worship.] 
Then  the  following  prayer: 


Evening  of  the  Loed's  Day.     67 

the  litany. 
r\  GOD   the  Father  of  Heaven,  have  mercy  upon 
^     us. 

0  God  the  Son,  Redeemer  of  the  world,  have  mercy 
upon  us. 

0  God  the  Holy  Ghost,  have  mercy  upon  us. 

Be  merciful  unto  us,  and  spare  us,  0  Lord. 

Be  merciful  unto  us,  and  deliver  us,  0  Lord. 

Erom  all  sin,  from  all  error,  from  all  evil,  from  the 
wiles  of  the  devil :  deliver  us,  0  Lord. 

From  dying  suddenly  and  unprepared ;  from  pesti- 
lence and  famine,  from  war  and  slaughter,  from  sedi- 
tion and  conspiracy,  from  lightning  and  tempest, 
from  everlasting  death  :  deliver  us,  0  Lord. 

By  the  mystery  of  Thy  holy  Incarnation,  by  Thy 
holy  Nativity,  by  Thy  Baptism,  Fasting,  and  Tempta- 
tions :   deliver  us,  0  Lord. 

By  Thine  Agony  and  bloody  Sweat,  by  Thy  Cross 
and  Passion,  by  Thy  Death  and  Burial,  by  Thy 
Resurrection  and  Ascension,  by  the  coming  of  the 
Holy  Ghost  the  Comforter  :  deliver  us,  0  Lord. 

In  all  time  of  our  tribulation,  in  all  time  of  our 
felicity,  in  the  hour  of  death,  in  the  day  of  judgment : 
deliver  us,  0  Lord. 


68        Ordek  of   Divine   Service. 

We  sinners  beseech  Thee  to  hear  us  : 

That  it  may  please  Thee  to,  rule  and  govern  Thy 
holy  Church  Universal. 

That  it  may  please  Thee  to  preserve  in  soundness 
of  word  and  holiness  of  life,  all  pastors  and  ministers 
of  Thy  Church. 

That  it  may  please  Thee  to  remove  all  sects  and 
scandals. 

That  it  may  please  Thee  to  bring  back  into  the 
way  of  truth  all  such  as  wander  and  have  been  led 
astray. 

That  it  may  please  Thee  to  crush  Satan  under  our 
feet. 

That  it  may  please  Thee  to  send  forth  faithful 
labourers  into  Thy  harvest. 

That  it  may  please  Thee  to  grant  the  increase  of 
Thy  Word  and  the  fruit  of  Thy  Spirit  unto  all  that 
hear. 

That  it  may  please  Thee  to  raise  the  fallen,  and 
strengthen  those  that  stand. 

That  it  may  please  Thee  to  console  the  weak-heart- 
ed, and  succour  the  tempted. 

That  it  may  please  Thee  to  give  peace  and  concord 
unto  all  rulers  and  governors. 


Evening  of   the  Lokd's  Day.      69 

That  it  may  please  Thee  to  guide  and  protect  our 
chief  magistrate,  with  all  his  counsellors. 

That  it  may  please  Thee  to  bless  and  preserve  our 
people,  and  all  in  authority  among  us. 

That  it  may  please  Thee  to  look  upon  the  afflicted, 
and  those  that  are  in  danger  ;  and  to  comfort  them. 

That  it  may  please  Thee  to  succour  all  women  in 
the  perils  of  child-birth. 

That  it  may  please  Thee  to  cherish  and  protect 
young  children,  and  sick  persons. 

That  it  may  please  Thee  to  defend  and  suitably 
provide  for  the  orphans  and  widows. 

That  it  may  please  Thee  to  grant  freedom  unto 
captives. 

That  it  may  please  Thee  to  have  mercy  upon  all  men. 

That  it  may  please  Thee  to  forgive  our  enemies, 
persecutors,  and  slanderers,  and  to  convert  them. 

That  it  may  please  Thee  to  give  and  preserve  the 
fruits  of  the  earth. 

That  it  may  please  Thee  to  grant  all  these  our 
requests. 

We  beseech  Thee  to  hear  us. 

Lamb  of  God,  who  takest  away  the  sins  of  the 
world,  have  mercy  upon  us. 


70      -Order  or   Divine  Service. 

Lamb  of  God,  who  takest  away  the  sins  of  the 
world,  grant  us  peace.  '  ; 

Lord,  deal  not  with  us  according  to  our  sins,  neither 
reward  us  according  to  our  iniquities. 

O  Ood,  Merciful  Father,  who  despisest  not  the 
groans  of  the  contrite,  nor  rejectest  the  desire  of  the 
sorrowful:  Be  favourable  to  our  prayers,  which,  in 
our  afflictions  that  continually  oppress  us,  we  pour 
out  before  Th^e;  and  graciously  hear  them;  that 
those  things  which  the  craft  of  the  devil  or  of  man 
worketh  against  us,  may  be  brought  to  nought,  and 
by  the  counsel  of  Thy  goodness  be  scattered ;  that 
being  hurt  by  no  persecutions,  we  may  ever  give 
thanks  unto  Thee  in  Thy  holy  Church  :  Through 
Jesus  Christ   our  Lord. 

0  God,  from  whom  all  holy  desires,  all  good  coun- 
sels, and  all  just  works  proceed :  Give  unto  Thy  serv- 
ants that  peace  which  the  world  can  not  give ;  that 
both  our  hearts  may  be  set  to  obey  Thy  command- 
ments, and  also  that  we,  being  defended  from  the  fear 
of  our  enemies,  may,  by  Thy  protection,  pass  our 
time  in  rest  and  quietness :  Through  Jesus  Christ 
our  Lord.     Amen. 


Evening  of  the  Lord's  Day.      71 

After  this  prayer,  let  a  hymn  be  sung  before  the 

SERMON. 

At  the  conclusion  of  which,  the  following  prayer,  or  the  like  in  effect. 

Cl^OSINa  PRAYER. 

A  LMIGHTY  God,  we  humbly  beseech  Thee  that 
■^■*-  the  good  seed  of  Thj  Word,  now  sown  among 
us,  may  take  such  deep  root,  that  neither  the  burning 
heat  of  affliction  may  cause  it  to  wither,  nor  the  cares 
of  this  world  choke  it,  but  that,  as  seed  sown  in  good 
ground,  it  may  bring  forth  fruit  to  Thy  praise.  And 
because  for  our  infirmity  we  can  do  nothing  without 
Thy  help,  and  Thou  knowest  how  many  and  sore 
temptations  surround  us  :  Let  Thy  strength,  0  Lord, 
sustain  our  weakness ;  let  Thy  grace  defend  us  from 
all  assaults  of  evil ;  increase  our  faith,  that  we  may 
never  swerve  from  Thy  commandment ;  augment  in 
us  hope  and  love  ;  and  may  no  hardness  of  heart,  no 
hypocrisy,  no  lusts  of  the  flesh,  no  enticements  of  the 
world,  cause  us  to  wander  from  Thy  ways.  Grant 
this,  0  Lord,  for  the  sake  of  our  Advocate  and  Re- 
deemer, Jesus  Christ.     Amen. 


Tlien  let  a  hymn  be  sung,  after  which  the  congregation  shall  bo  dismissed 
with  the 


72        Order  of  Divine  Service. 


BENEDICTION. 


rpHE  grace  of  the  Lord  Jesus  Christj  and  the  love 
-■-  of  God,  and  the  communion  of  the  Holy  Ghost, 
be  with  you  all.     Amen. 


»- 


OTHER   FORMS 


EVENING   SERVICE   ON  THE   LORD'S  DAY. 


INVOCATION. 
I. 

r\  ETERNAL,  Almighty,  and  most  Gracious  God  ! 
^^  Heaven  is  Thy  throne,  and  earth  is  Thy  foot- 
stool :  holy  and  reverend  is  Thy  Name.  We  sinners 
are  bold,  through  our  blessed  Mediator,  to  present 
ourselves  and  our  supplications  before  Thee.  Receive 
us  graciously,  help  us  by  Thy  Spirit,  let  Thy  fear  be 
upon  us,  let  Thy  Word  come  unto  us  in  power,  and  be 
received  in"  love ;  cause  us  to  be  fervent  in  prayer, 
and  joyful  in  Thy  praises,  and  to  serve  Thee  this  day 
without  distraction,  that  we  may  find  it  good  for  us  to 
draw  near  unto  Thee :  Through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord. 
Our  Father,  etc. 

II. 
Tj^TERNAL  and  Invisible  God  I     Infinite  in  power, 
-'-^     wisdom,  and   goodness,    dwelling   in  the   light 


0 

74        Ordek  of  Divine   Service.        ^i^^ 

which  no  man  can  approach,  yet  dwelling  also  with 
the  humble  and  contrite,  and  taking  pleasure  in  Thy 
people  :  Thou  hast  consecrated  for  us  a  new  and  liv- 
ing way,  that  with  boldness  we  may  enter  into  the 
holiest  by  the  blood  of  Jesus.  Behold  us  at  Thy 
footstool.  Despise  us  not,  though  unworthy ;  put 
Thy  fear  into  our  hearts,  that  with  reverence  we  may 
serve  Thee ;  write  Thy  laws  in  our  minds,  and  let  us 
all  be  taught  of  Thee.  So  may  the  words  of  our 
mouths  and  the  meditations  of  our  hearts  be  acceptable 
in  Thy  sight,  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Redeemer. 
Our  Father,  etc. 


Instead  of  the  Litany. 
I. 

A  LMIGHTY  God,  Most  Merciful  Father !  We  do 
-^^  not  present  ourselves  before  Thy  Majesty  trust- 
ing in  our  own  merits  or  worthiness,  but  in  Thy  mani- 
fold mercies.  Thou  hast  promised  to  hear  our  prayers 
and  to  grant  our  requests,  in  the  Name  of  Thy  beloved 
Son  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord  :  Who  also  hath  com- 
manded us  to  assemble  in  His  Name,  with  full  assur- 
ance that  He  will  be  with  us,  and,  as  our  Mediator 


1^ 

**     Evening  of  the  Lord's  Day.       75 

and  Advocate,  obtain  all  things  expedient  for  our 
good.  Therefore  we  beseech  Thee,  Most  Merciful 
Father  !  turn  Thy  loving  countenance  toward  us ;  im- 
pute not  unto  us  our  manifold  offences,  whereby  we 
justly  deserve  Thy  wrath ;  but  rather  receive  us  to 
Thy  mercy  for  Jesus  Christ's  sake.  Accept  His 
death  and  passion  for  all  our  trespasses.  In  Him 
alone  Thou  art  well-pleased ;  and  through  Him  Thou 
canst  not  be  offended  with  us.  And  having  of  Thy 
compassion  chosen  us  to  be  heirs  with  Him  of  that  im- 
mortal Kingdom  prepared  for  us  before  the  foundation 
of  the  world  :  We  beseech  Thee  to  increase  our  faith 
and  knowledge,  and  to  lighten  our  hearts  with  Thine 
Holy  Spirit ;  that  we  may  live  in  godly  conversation, 
and  integrity  of  life. 

And  because  Thou  hast  bidden  us  pray  for  one  an- 
other, we  make  request,  0  Lord !  not  only  for  our- 
selves, and  others  whom  Thou  hast  called  to  the  ap- 
prehension of  Thy  will,  but  for  all  people  and  nations 
of  the  world.  As  they  know  by  Thy  wonderful  works 
that  Thou  art  God  over  all,  so  by  Thy  Holy  Spirit 
may  they  learn  to  believe  in  Christ,  their  only  Sa- 
viour and  Redeemer.  But  since  they  cannot  believe 
except  they  hear,   nor  hear  but  by  preaching,   and 


76        Ordek  of   Divine   Service. 

none  can  preach  except  they  be  sent :  Raise  up,  0 
Lord  !  faithful  distributors  of  Thy  Mysteries,  who, 
setting  aside  all  worldly  considerations,  may  both  in 
their  life  and  in  their  doctrine  seek  only  Thy  glory. 
Maintain  Thy  cause  against  all  opposition ;  and 
strengthen  all  Thy  servants :  let  not  our  sins  and 
wickedness  prove  a  hindrance  to  the  spread  of  Thy 
Truth ;  but  speedily,  0  Lord  !  regard  the  afflictions 
of  Thy  Church  ;  and  make  haste  to  save  us.  Arise, 
0  Lord  !  and  let  Thine  enemies  be  ashamed  ;  let  them 
flee  from  Thy  presence  that  hate  Thy  holy  Name  ;  let 
the  groans  of  the  prisoners  come  up  before  Thee  ;  and 
preserve  by  Thy  power  such  as  are  appointed  to  die. 
Let  not  Thy  foes  triumph  to  the  end ;  but  let  them 
understand  that  against  Thee  they  fight ;  behold  and 
defend  the  vine  that  Thy  right  hand  hath  planted ; 
and  let  all  nations  see  the  glory  of  Thine  Anointed. 
Let  Thy  mighty  hand  and  outstretched  arm  be  ever 
our  defence ;  Thy  mercy  and  loving-kindness  in  Christ 
our  salvation ;  Thy  true  and  holy  Word  our  instruc- 
tion ;  Thy  grace  and  Holy  Spirit  our  consolation,  unto 
the  end.  Grant  these  our  requests,  0  Father  !  and 
all  other  things  needful  for  us  and  Thy  whole  Church; 
according  to  Thy  promise  in  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord  : 


21 


Evening  of   the   Lords  Day.      77 

unto  whonij  with  Thee  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  be  all 
honour  and  glory,  world  without  end.     Amen. 

II. 
A  LMIGHTY  God,  our  Heavenly  Father  !  We  in- 
■^^  voke  Thy  Name,  and  beseech  Thee  to  turn 
away  Thy  face  from  our  manifold  sins  and  transgres- 
sions, whereby  we  have  not  ceased  to  draw  Thine  an- 
ger upon  us.  And  because  we  are  most  unworthy  to 
appear  before  Thy  sovereign  Majesty,  be  pleased  to 
regard  us  only  in  Thy  well-beloved  Son  Jesus  Christ ; 
accepting  the  merits  of  His  death  in  satisfaction  for  all 
our  offences,  that  by  His  atonement  we  may  become 
well-pleasing  in  Thy  sight.  Pour  upon  us  Thy  Holy 
Spirit,  illuminating  our  minds  in  the  true  understand- 
ing of  Thy  Word ;  and  bestow  upon  us  grace,  that  re- 
ceiving Thy  Truth  into  our  hearts  with  humility  and 
fear,  we  may  be  led  to  put  all  our  trust  in  Thee  only, 
and  live  in  Thy  service  and  worship,  to  the  glory  of 
Thy  holy  Name.  These  benefits  we  ask,  not  only  for 
ourselves,  but  also  for  all  people  and  nations  on  the 
earth.  Bring  back,  0  Lord,  into  the  right  way  of 
salvation,  all  poor  captives  of  ignorance  and  false  doc- 
trine.     Raise   up  true  and  faithful  ministers  of  the 


78        Order  of   DivineService. 

Wordj  who  shall  seek  not  their  own  ease  and  ambition, 
but  the  exaltation  of  Th  j  Name,  and  the  safety  of  Thy 
flock.  Remove  and  scatter  all  sects,  heresies,  and 
errors,  which  are  the  nurseries  of  strife  and  dissension 
in  Thy  Church  ;  and  may  all  Thy  people  be  of  one 
mind,  and  live  in  brotherly  union.  Rule  Thou  and 
govern  with  Thy  Spirit  all  kings,  princes,  and  magis- 
trates, who  hold  the  administration  of  the  sword  ;  that 
their  dominion  may  be  exercised,  not  in  avarice,  cruelty, 
and  oppression,  or  any  other  evil  and  inordinate  affection, 
but  in  all  justice  and  uprightness.  May  we  also,  liv- 
ing under  them,  pay  them  due  honour  and  reverence, 
and  lead  quiet  and  peaceable  lives,  in  all  godliness  and 
honesty.  Comfort  all  distressed  and  afflicted  persons, 
whom  Thou  dost  visit  with  any  kind  of  cross  or  tribu- 
lation ;  the  nations  whom  Thou  dost  chasten  with  war, 
pestilence,  famine,  or  any  other  plague ;  and  all  men 
whom  Thou  dost  afflict  with  poverty,  imprisonment, 
sickness,  banishment,  or  any  other  distress  of  body  or 
infirmity  of  mind.  Grant  them  firm  patience  under 
their  trials,  and  speedily  bring  them  out  of  their  afflic- 
tions. Confirm  and  strengthen  all  Thy  faithful  chil- 
dren, who  in  any  place  are  suffering  persecution  for 
the  testimony  of  Thy  heavenly   Truth.     Give  them 


Evening  of  the  Lord's  Day.      79 

stedfast  constancy  ;  console  them  ;  suffer  not  the  rage 
of  rapacious  wolves  to  prevail  against  them ;  but  en- 
able them  to  glorify  Thy  Name,  as  well  in  life  as  in 
death.  Preserve  and  defend  all  Thy  Churches  which 
at  this  day  are  labouring  and  fighting  for  the  testimony 
of  Thy  blessed  Name.  Defeat  and  overturn  all  the 
counsels  of  their  enemies,  their  machinations  and  de- 
vices. So  may  Thy  glory  be  revealed,  and  the  King- 
dom of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ  more  and  more  in- 
creased and  promoted.  All  this  we  ask  of  Thee  in  the 
name  of  our  Sovereign  Lord  and  Master,  Jesus  Christ. 
Amen. 

III. 

(Paraphrase  of  the  Lord's  Prayer.) 

/^UR  Father  which  art  in  heaven  !  We  draw  near  to 
^  Thee  with  assured  confidence  through  Thy  be- 
loved Son ;  earnestly  beseeching  that  Thy  great  and 
holy  Name  may  be  glorified  in  every  place.  Extend  Thy 
dominion  over  all  the  earth  :  leading  Thy  people  by 
the  sceptre  of  Thy  Word,  and  the  power  of  Thy 
Spirit :  and  confounding  all  Thine  enemies  by  the 
might  of  Thy  justice  and  Thy  truth.  Be  pleased  to 
rule  over  and  conduct  us ;  that  we  may  daily  learn 
more  and  more  to  submit  ourselves  to  Thy  Majesty,  as 


80        Oeder  of   Divine   Service. 

our  Governor  and  King.  Destroy  every  power  and 
principality  opposed  to  Thy  glory,  until  Thy  Kingdom 
be  perfectly  established,  and  Thou  appear  for  judg- 
ment in  the  person  of  Thy  Son.  Great  God  !  make 
us  able  and  willing  to  render  Thee  true  and  perfect 
obedience  on  earth,  as  do  Thy  heavenly  angels,  that 
seek  only  to  execute  Thy  commands.  Thus  may  Thy 
will  without  contradiction  be  fulfilled ;  and  all  men 
submit  to  Thee,  renouncing  their  own  purposes,  and 
all  the  affections  of  the  flesh. 

Grant  also,  good  Lord !  that  we,  walking  in  the 
fear  and  love  of  Thy  holy  Name,  may  through  Thy 
goodness  be  nourished  day  by  day  ;  and  receive  at  Thy 
hands  all  things  expedient  and  necessary  for  us,  that 
we  may  use  Thy  gifts  in  quietness  and  peace.  And 
observing  Thy  care  of  us,  may  we  better  acknowledge 
Thee  to  be  our  Father,  expect  all  benefits  at  Thy 
hands  only ;  and  withdrawing  our  confidence  from 
creatures,  place  it  wholly  in  Thy  favour  and  Thy 
love.       .  -  - 

And  l>ecause  in  this  mortal  life  we  are  prone  to 
wander  from  the  right  way,  and  do  continually  come 
short  of  our  duty :  We  beseech  Thee,  Lord  !  forgive 
our  faults,  by  which  we  have  deserved  Thy  chastise- 


Evening  of  the  Lord's  Day.      81 

ment;  deliver  us  from  that  everlasting  death  unto 
which  we  are  justly  exposed  ;  impute  not  unto  us  the 
evil  that  dwells  within  us :  and  even  so  may  we,  ac- 
cording to  Thj  command,  forgive  the  trespasses  of 
others,  and  do  good  unto  our  enemies,  rather  than 
seek  their  hurt. 

Finally,  0  Lord !  Vouchsafe  to  uphold  us  hence- 
forth by  Thy  power,  lest  we  fall  through  the  weakness 
of  the  flesh.  And  since  of  ourselves  we  are  frail,  and 
beset  with  foes,  the  world,  the  flesh,  and  the  devil, 
that  cease  not  to  war  against  us  :  Be  pleased  to  fortify 
us  with  Thy  Spirit,  and  arm  us  with  Thy  grace ;  may 
we  withstand  all  manner  of  temptation,  and  gain  full 
victory  in  our  spiritual  warfare ;  so  that  at  last  we 
may  triumph  eternally  in  Thy  Kingdom,  with  our 
Sovereign  Head  and  Captain,  Jesus  Christ  Thy  Son. 
Amen. 

IV. 

r\  LORD  our  God,  Father  Everlasting  and  full  of 

^^     compassion  !     Hear  from  the  heavens  our  prayers 

and  supplications,  which  we  pour  forth  before  Thy 

throne.     In  the  multitude  of  Thy  mercies  Thou  hast 

not  only  created  us  reasonable  creatures,  but  also  of 

Thine  inestimable  goodness  Thou  hast  sent  the  great 

4* 


82        Oeder  of  Divine   Service. 

Angel  of  the  Covenant,  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  to  re- 
deem us.  Bj  Him  Thy  wrath  is  taken  away,  the 
Law  is  satisfied,  the  power  of  death,  of  hell,  and  of 
Satan  is  broken.  Behold,  when  we  lay  in  the  shadow 
of  death,  in  fearful  darkness  of  the  soul.  Thou  madest 
the  light  of  Thy  Gospel  to  shine  upon  us,  showing  us 
the  way  to  life  everlasting.  With  these  spiritual 
benefits,  it  hath  pleased  Thee  to  continue  temporal 
blessings.  Thou  hast  been  our  hope,  our  fortress,  ajid 
our  God.  Thou  hast  covered  us  with  Thy  feathers, 
and  under  Thy  wings  Thou  hast  made  us  to  trust. 
Grant  us,  0  Merciful  Father,  thankful  hearts  for 
these  Thy  manifold  favours.  Open  our  mouths  to 
sound  forth  Thy  praise,  and  ofier  the  sacrifice  of 
thanksgiving,  wherein  Thou  dost  delight.  And  we 
most  humbly  beseech  Thee,  give  us  unfeigned  repent- 
ance for  our  past  unthankfulness  to  Thee ;  create  in 
us  new  hearts,  work  in  us  sorrow  for  our  sins,  and 
hatred  of  the  same,  and  a  hearty  love  unto  Thy  right- 
eousness :  that  we,  being  not  conformed  unto  this 
wicked  world,  but  making  Thy  will  the  order  of  our 
life,  may  ofier  ourselves  up  a  living  sacrifice  unto 
Thee,  consecrating  to  Thy  glory  both  body  and  soul, 
with  all  our  powers. 


Evening  of  the  Lord's  Day.     83 

Preserve  us,  good  Lord,  from  the  thraldom  of  sin 
and  the  bondage  of  unbelief  Continue  the  light  of 
Thy  glorious  Gospel  among  us.  Purge  our  land  of  all 
violence,  uncleanness,  oppression,  and  every  other  evil 
that  defiles  Thine  inheritance.  Arm  us  Thy  servants 
with  Thy  power,  to  strive  against  Satan,  the  flesh,  and 
the  world,  and  all  things  that  would  beguile  us  from 
our  allegiance  unto  Thee :  That,  walking  in  Thy 
paths,  and  obeying  Thy  blessed  ordinances,  we  may 
end  our  lives  to  the  honour  of  Thy  Name,  and  attain 
that  immortality  and  crown  of  glory  laid  up  for  Thine 
elect  in  Jesus  Christ,  the  God  of  immortality  and  the 
King  of  glory.     Amen. 

CLOSING   PRAYER. 
I. 

TT7"E  most  humbly  beseech  Thee,  0  Father  of  Mercy, 
'  ^  for  Jesus  Christ  Thy  Son's  sake,  that  as  Thou 
hast  caused  the  light  of  Thy  Word  clearly  to  shine 
among  us,  and  hast  plainly  instructed  us  by  the  exter- 
nal Ministry  in  the  right  way  of  salvation  :  So  it  may 
please  Thee  inwardly  to  move  our  dull  hearts  ;  and  by 
the  power  of  Thy  Holy  Spirit  to  write  and  seal  in 
them  that  holy  fear  and  reverence  which  Thou  requir- 


84        Order  of  Divine   Service. 

est  of  Thy  chosen.  Grant  us  faithful  obedience  to  Thy 
holy  will,  together  with  the  sense  that  our  sins  are 
fully  purged  and  freely  remitted,  by  that  One  Sacrifice 
which  alone  is  acceptable  to  Thee ;  the  obedience, 
death,  and  mediation  of  Thy  Son,  our  sovereign  Lord, 
our  only  Shepherd  and  High  Priest,  Jesus  Christ ;  to 
whom  with  Thee  and  with  the  Holy  Ghost,  be  all  hon- 
our and  glory,  world  without  end.     Amen. 

II. 
f\  GOD,  who  hast  given  us  Thy  Holy  Scriptures  for 
^  our  instruction,  we  beseech  Thee  by  Thy  grace 
to  enlighten  our  minds  and  cleanse  our  hearts ;  that 
we,  having  read,  heard,  and  meditated  upon  them,  may 
rightly  understand  and  heartily  embrace  the  things 
Thou  hast  revealed.  Give  efficacy  to  the  preaching  of 
the  Gospel,  that  through  the  operation  of  the  Holy 
Ghost,  this  good  seed  may  be  received  into  our  hearts 
as  into  good  ground ;  and  that  we  may  not  only  hear 
Thy  Word  but  keep  it,  living  in  conformity  with  Thy 
precepts ;  so  that  we  may  finally  attain  everlasting 
salvation,  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 


Evening  of  the  Lord's  Day.       85 

III. 
r\  HEAVENLY  Father  !  Thy  Word  is  perfect,  con- 
^-^  verting  the  soul ;  a  sure  testimony,  making  wise 
the  simple ;  enlightening  the  ejes  of  the  blind ;  and 
a  powerful  mean  of  salvation  for  all  that  believe. 
Help  us,  Thine  unworthy  servants,  whether  we  teach, 
or  whether  we  be  taught,  to  learn  of  Thee.  We  are 
blind  by  nature,  wholly  incapable  of  doing  any  good ; 
and  Thou  wilt  help  none  but  those  that  are  of  a  broken 
and  contrite  heart.  We  beseech  Thee  to  enlighten 
our  understanding  with  Thy  Holy  Spirit,  and  give  us 
a  meek  heart,  free  from  all  haughtiness  and  carnal 
knowledge ;  that,  hearing  Thy  Word,  we  may  rightly 
understand  it,  and  rule  our  lives  accordingly.  Be 
graciously  pleased  to  convert  all  those  who  yet  stray 
from  Thy  truth ;  that  we,  together  with  them,  may 
unanimously  serve  Thee  in  holiness  and  righteousness 
all  the  days  of  our  life.  We  ask  all  things  for  the 
sake  of  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord :  To  whom,  with  Thee 
and  the  Holy  Ghost,  be  all  honour  and  praise  ever- 
more.    Amen. 


>J-- 


THE 


MANNER     OF    CELEBRATING 


THE     SACRAMENT    OP 


THE    LORD'S    SUPPER. 


m 


THE 

MANNER     OF    CELEBRATING 

THE    SACRAMENT    OP 

THE    LORD'S    SUPPER. 


"The  Communion,  or  Supper  of  the  Lord,  is  to  be  celebrated  frequently; 
but  how  often,  may  be  determined  by  the  Minister  and  Eldership  of  each  con- 
gregation, as  they  may  judge  most  for  edification. 

"  The  ignorant  and  scandalous  are  not  to  be  admitted  to  the  Lord's  Supper. 

"  It  is  proper  that  public  notice  should  be  given  to  the  congregation,  at  least 
the  Sabbath  before  the  administration  of  this  ordinance,  and  that  either  then, 
or  on  some  day  of  the  week,  the  people  should  be  instructed  in  its  nature,  and 
a  due  preparation  for  it ;  that  all  may  come  in  a  suitable  manner  to  this  holy 
feast." 

The  service  may  be  introduced  by  the  singing  of  a  Sacramental  Hymn,  fol- 
lowed by  this  prayer : 


•     INVOCATION. 

A  LMIGHTY  God  !  whose  well-beloved  Son  hath 
-^  once  offered  up  His  body  and  blood  on  the 
Cross  for  the  remission  of  our  sins,  and  now  vouch- 
safes them  for  our  meat  and  drink  unto  life  eternal : 
Grant  us  grace  with  pure  hearts  and  fervent  desires 
to  accept  this  great  blessing  at  Thy  hands.  May  we 
by  lively  faith  partake  of  His  body  and  blood,  yea,  of 
Himself,   true  God  and  man,  that   only  bread  from 


90    The   Mannee   of   Celebeating 

heaven,  that  giveth  life  unto  our  souls.  Suffer  us  no 
longer  to  live  unto  ourselves,  according  to  the  inclina- 
tions of  a  corrupt  and  sinful  nature  ;  but  may  He  live 
in  us,  and  lead  us  to  the  life  that  is  holy,  blessed,  and 
unchangeable  for  ever.  Thus  may  we  be  partakers  of 
the  new  and  everlasting  Testament,  which  is  the 
Covenant  of  grace.  And  thus  assure  us  of  Thy  wil- 
lingness ever  to  be  our  gracious  Father ;  not  imputing 
to  us  our  sins,  but  as  Thy  beloved  heirs  and  children, 
providing  us  with  all  things  needful  for  our  good, 
that  both  by  our  works  and  words  we  may  magnify 
Thy  Name.  Fit  us,  0  heavenly  Father  !  at  this  time 
so  to  celebrate  the  blessed  remembrance  of  Thy 
beloved  Son.  .Enable  us  profitably  to  contemplate 
His  love,  and  show  forth  the  benefits  of  His  death ; 
that  receiving  fresh  increase  of  strength  in  Thy 
faith,  and  in  all  good  works,  we  may  with  greater  con- 
fidence call  Thee  our  Father,  and  evermore  rejoice 
in  Thee :  Through  Jesus  Christ  our  Kedeemer. 
Amen. 

the  creed. 

To  be  said  by  the  Minister  and  People. 

T  ET  us  now  make  profession  of  our  faith  in  the 
-*^     doctrine  of  the  Christian  religion,  wherein  we 


The  Lord's   Supper.  91 

do  all  purpose,  hj  the  grace  of  God,  to  live  and  to 
die. 

I  believe  in  God  the  Father  Almighty,  Maker  of 
heaven  and  earth  :  and  in  Jesus  Christ  His  only  Son 
our  Lord ;  who  was  conceived  by  the  Holy  Ghost, 
born  of  the  Virgin  Mary,  suffered  under  Pontius 
Pilate,  was  crucified,  dead,  and  buried ;  He  descended 
into  hell ;  the  third  day  He  rose  again  from  the  dead  ; 
He  ascended  into  heaven,  and  sitteth  on  the  right 
hand  of  God  the  Father  Almighty ;  from  thence  He 
shall  come  to  judge  the  quick  and  the  dead.  I  believe 
in  the  Holy  Ghost ;  the  Holy  Catholic  Church,  the 
Communion  of  Saints ;  the  forgiveness  of  sins ;  the 
resurrection  of  the  body ;  and  the  life  everlasting. 
Amen. 


"  Then  the  Minister  shall  show  that  this  is  an  ordinance  of  Christ ;  by  read- 
ing the  words  of  institution,  either  from  one  of  the  evangelists,  or  from  1  Cor. 
xi. ;  which  as  to  him  may  appear  expedient  he  may  explain  and  apply :  that  it 
Is  to  be  observed  in  remembrance  of  Christ,  to  show  forth  His  death  till  lie 
come;  that  it  is  of  inestimable  benefit,  to  strengthen  His  people  against  sin; 
to  support  them  under  troubles  ;  to  encourage  and  quicken  them  in  duty ;  to 
inspire  them  with  love  and  zeal ;  to  increase  their  faith  and  holy  resolution ; 
and  to  beget  peace  of  conscience,  and  comfortable  hopes  of  eternal  life. 

"  He  is  to  warn  the  profane,  the  ignorant,  scandalous,  and  those  that  secretly 
indulge  themselves  in  any  known  sin,  not  to  approach  the  Holy  Table.  On 
the  other  hand,  he  shall  invite  to  this  Holy  Table  such  as,  sensible  of  their  lost 
and  helpless  state  by  sin,  depend  upon  the  Atonement  of  Christ  for  pardon 
and  acceptance  with  God ;  such  as,  being  Instructed  in  the  Gospel  doctrine, 
have  a  competent  knowledge  to  discern  the  Lord's  Body,  and  such  as  desire  to 
renounce  their  sins,  and  are  determined  to  lead  a  holy  and  godly  life." 


92     The   Manner   of   Celebrating 


THE   WORDS   OF  THE   INSTITUTION. 

A  TTEND  to  the  words  of  the  institution  of  the 
-^■^     Holy  Supper  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  as  thej 

.^rv  are  delivered  by  the  Apostle  Paul. 

^^  For  I  have  received  of  the  Lord  that  which  also 
I  delivered  unto  you.  That  the  Lord  Jesus,  the 
same  night  in  which  He  was  betrayed,  took  bread: 
and  when  He  had  given  thanks,  He  brake  it,  a,nd  said, 
Take,  eat ;  this  is  my  body,  which  is  broken  for  you  : 
this  do  in  remembrance  of  me.  After  the  same  man- 
ner also.  He  took  the  cup,  when  He  had  supped,  say- 
ing, This  cup  is  the  new  testament  in  my  blood :  this 
do  ye,  as  oft  as  ye  drink  it,  in  remembrance  of  me. 
For,  as  often  as  ye  eat  this  bread,  and  drink  this  cup, 
ye  do  show  the  Lord's  death  till  He  come.  Where- 
fore, whosoever  shall  eat  this  bread,  and  drink  this 
cup  of  the  Lord,  unworthily,  shall  be  guilty  of  the 
body  and  blood  of  the  Lord.  But  let  a  man  examine 
himself,  and  so  let  him  eat  of  that  bread,  and  drink  of 
that  cup.  For  he  that  eateth  and  drinketh  unwor- 
thily, eateth  and  drinketh  damnation  to  himself,  not 
discerning  the  Lord's  body. 


The  Lord's  Supper.  93 

the  exhortation. 

"ITrE  have  heard,  brethren,  after  what  manner  our 
^  '  Lord  celebrated  the  Supper  among  His  disci- 
ples ;  and  have  seen  that  those  who  are  not  of  the 
company  of  the  faithful,  may  not  approach  this  feast. 
Wherefore,  in  compliance  with  this  rule,  in  the  Name 
and  by  the  authority  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  I  warn 
all  idolaters,  blasphemers,  despisers  of  God,  heretics, 
all  that  are  rebellious,  seditious,  contentious,  injurious, 
and  all  that  lead  corrupt  and  wicked  lives,  to  abstain 
from  this  Table,  lest  they  pollute  the  sacred  food 
which  our  Lord  gives  only  to  His  people.  Let  each 
of  you,  then,  according  to  St.  Paul's  exhortation, 
examine  and  prove  his  own  conscience,  to  know 
whether  he  have  true  repentance,  and  sorrow  for  his 
sins ;  whether  he  desires  to  lead  henceforth  a  holy  and 
godly  life  ,•  above  all,  whether  he  puts  his  whole  trust 
in  the  mercy  of  God,  and  seeks  his  whole  salvation  in 
Jesus  Christ ;  and  renouncing  all  enmity  and  malice, 
doth  truly  and  honestly  purpose  to  live  in  harmony 
and  brotherly  love  with  his  neighbour. 

If  we  have  this  testimony  in  our  hearts  before  God, 
we  may  not  doubt  that  He  adopts  us  for  His  children, 


94    The   Manner   of   Celebrating 

and  that  our  Lord  Jesus  addresseth  to  us  His  word, 
admitting  us  to  this  Table,  and  presenting  us  with 
this  holy  Sacrament,  which  He  designs  for  His  fol- 
lowers alone.  And  although  we  may  be  conscious 
of  many  infirmities  and  miseries  in  ourselves,  as 
namely,  that  we  have  not  perfect  faith,  and  that 
we  have  not  given  ourselves  to  serve  God  with  such 
zeal  as  we  are  bound  to  do,  but  have  daily  to  battle 
with  the  lusts  of  our  flesh  :  Yet,  since  the  Lord  hath 
been  graciously  pleased  to  print  His  Gospel  upon  our 
hearts,  and  hath  enabled  us  to  resist  unbelief;  and 
hath  given  us  an  earnest  desire  to  renounce  our  own 
thoughts,  and  follow  His  righteousness  and  His  holy 
commandments :  Therefore  we  rest  assured,  that 
these  remaining  sins  and  imperfections  do  not  prevent 
us  from  being  received  of  God,  and  made  worthy 
partakers  of  this  spiritual  food.  For  we  do  not 
come  to  this  Supper  to  testify  hereby  that  we  are 
perfect  and  righteous  in  ourselves :  but,  on  the  con- 
trary, seeking  our  life  in  Jesus  Christ,  we  acknowl- 
edge that  we  lie  in  the  midst  of  death.  Let  us,  then, 
regard  this  Sacrament  as  a  medicine  for  those  who  are 
spiritually  diseased ;  and  consider,  that  all  the  worthiness 
our  Lord  requires,  is,  that  we  truly  know  ourselves, 


The   Lord's   Supper.  95 

be  sorry  for  our  sins,  and  find  our  pleasure,  joy,  and 
satisfaction  in  Him  above. 

First,  tben,  we  should  believe  this  promise,  which 
Christ,  who  is  Infallible  Truth,  has  pronounced  with 
His  own  lips :  That  He  is  truly  willing  to  make  us 
partakers  of  His  own  body  and  blood,  in  order  that 
we  may  wholly  possess  Him,  that  He  may  live  in  us, 
and  we  in  Him.  And  although  you  see  here  only  the 
Bread  and  Wine,  doubt  not  that  He  will  accomplish 
spiritually  in  your  souls  all  that  He  outwardly  ex- 
hibits by  these  visible  signs :  He  will  manifest  Him- 
self to  be  the  heavenly  Bread,  to  feed  and  nourish 
you  unto  eternal  life.  Be  not  unthankful  for  the  in- 
finite goodness  of  your  Lord,  who  displays  at  this 
Table  the  riches  of  His  love,  to  distribute  them  among 
you.  For,  in  giving  Himself  to  us,  He  testifies  that 
all  He  has  is  ours.  Let  us  also  receive  this  Sacra- 
ment as  a  pledge,  that  the  virtue  of  His  death  and 
passion  is  imputed  unto  us  for  righteousness ;  even  as 
though  we  had  suffered  in  our  own  persons  the  pen- 
alty of  our  guilt.  Let  no  man  perversely  draw  back, 
when  Jesus  gently  invites  him  by  His  Word.  But, 
considering  the  dignity  of  His  precious  gift,  let  us 
present  ourselves  to  Him  with  fervent  zeal,  that  He 


96      The  Manner  of   Celebrating 

may  make  us  capable  of  receiving  His  proffered 
grace. 

And  noAV  to  this  end  lift  up  your  minds  and  hearts 
on  high,  where  Christ  abideth  in  the  glory  of  His 
Father,  whence  we  expect  His  coming  at  our  redemp- 
tion, Dwell  not  on  these  earthly  and  corruptible  ele- 
ments, which  we  see  present  to  our  eyes,  and  feel  with 
our  hands,  to  seek  Him  in  them,  as  though  He  were 
enclosed  in  the  bread  or  in  the  wine.  Be  satisfied  to 
have  this  bread  and  this  wine  for  witnesses  and  signs ; 
seeking  spiritually  the  truth  where  God's  Word  hath 
promised  that  we  shall  find  it.  For  then  only  shall 
our  souls  be  disposed  to  receive  food  and  life  from  His 
substance,  when  they  shall  be  thus  raised  above  all 
worldly  things,  even  unto  heaven,  and  enter  into  the 
kingdom  of  God,  where  He  dwells. 

"The  table  on -which  the  elements  are  placed  being  decently  covered,  the 
bread  in  convenient  dishes,  and  the  wine  in  cups,  and  the  commnnicants  or- 
derly and  gravely  sitting  around  the  table,  (or  in  their  seats  before  it,)  in  the 
presence  of  the  Minister :  let  him  set  the  elements  apart,  by  prayer  and  thanks- 
giving." 

THE    CONSECRATING   PRAYER. 

T  ORD  God!  Father  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ! 
-*-^  Thou  who  art  infinite  goodness,  and  perfect  love ! 
We  bring  to  Thee  the  sacrifice  of  our  praise,  and  the 


The  Lord's  Supper.  97 

offering  of  our  thanks,  for  Thine  inestimable  gift  in 
sending  Thy  Son  into  the  world ;  for  delivering  Him 
up  to  die  for  us  all ;  and  for  inviting  us  to  participate 
in  the  fruits  of  His  atonement,  at  the  Table  of  this 
holy  feast.  Lord  !  what  are  we,  to  receive  such  price- 
less benefits  at  Thy  hand  ?  or  how  shall  we  worthily 
show  forth  our  gratitude  to  Thee  ?  The  heavens  and 
the  earth,  0  Lord!  are  full  of  the  tokens  of  Thy 
bounty :  but  especially  dost  Thou  manifest  Thy  love, 
in  that  while  we  were  yet  sinners,  Christ  died  for  us. 
Accept,  0  Lord  our  God  !  the  homage  of  Thine  ador- 
ing people.  And  grant  that  we,  partaking  of  this 
holy  Sacrament,  to  which  we  are  welcomed  by  Thy 
grace,  may  now  join  ourselves  by  the  bonds  of  living 
faith  and  true  holiness  to  our  Saviour  :  so  that  we  may 
not  henceforth  live  unto  ourselves,  but  that  He  may 
live  in  us,  and  lead  us  to  that  blessed  life  that  shall  have 
no  end.  ,.    . 

Father  of  Mercies !  who  didst  not  spare  Thine  only- 
begotten  Son,  but  deliveredst  Him  to  death  for  us  all ; 
and  hast  brought  us  into  fellowship  with  Him,  that  we 
might  obtain  everlasting  life  :  We  Thy  servants,  with  a 
lively  sense  of  Thy  precious  gift,  do  now  consecrate  our- 
selves entirely  unto  Thee.     We  present  to  Thee  our 


98      The  Mannek  of  Celebrating 

bodies,  and  our  souls,  in  a  living  and  holy  sacrifice.  And 
since  Thou  hast  loved  us  so  much,  we  acknowledge 
ourselves  constrained  to  love  one  another.  Impress 
our  hearts,  0  God  !  with  these  holy  inclinations  :  that 
so  celebrating  the  remembrance  of  Thy  dear  Son,  our 
faith  may  grow  strong,  our  charity  increase,  our  sanc- 
tification  advance  and  be  made  complete,  until  we  be 
meet  for  the  inheritance  of  Thy  saints  in  light  ever- 
lasting. Hear  us,  0  Father  of  Mercies !  we  ask  all 
in  the  Name  of  Thy  well-beloved  Son,  Jesus  Christ  our 
Lord :  unto  whom,  as  unto  Thee,  and  the  Holy  Ghost, 
one  God,  be  honour,  praise,  and  glory,  now,  henceforth, 
and  for  ever.     Amen. 


"  The  Bread  and  Wine  being  tlins  set  apart  by  prayer  and  thanksgiving,  the 
Minister  is  to  take  the  Bread  and  break  it,  in  the  view  of  the  people,  saying: 


/^UR  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  on  the  same  night  in  which 
^^  He  was  betrayed,  having  taken  bread,  and 
blessed  and  broken  it,  gave  it  to  His  disciples ;  as  I, 
ministering  in  His  Name,  give  this  bread  unto  you : 
saying,  \here  the  bread  is  to  he  distributed,']  Take, 
eat :  this  is  My  body,  which  is  broken  for  you  :  this 
do  in  remembrance  of  Me. 

"  After  having  given  the  Broad,  he  shall  take  the  Cup,  and  say: 


The  Lord's  Supper.  99 

A  FTER  the  same  manner  our  Saviour  also  took  the 
-^■^  cup;  and'  having  given  thanks,  as  hath  been 
done  in  His  Name,  He  gave  it  to  the  disciples ;  say- 
ing, \Jiere  the  cup  is  to  be  given,^  This  cup  is  the  new 
testament  in  My  blood,  which  is  shed  for  many,  for 
the  remission  of  sins  :  drink  ye  all  of  it.  For  as  often 
as  ye  eat  this  bread,  -and  drink  this  cup,  ye  do  show 
the  Lord's  death  till  He  come. 

"  The  Minister  himself  is  to  communicate,  at  such  time  as  may  appear  to  him 
most  convenient." 

SENTENCES, 

Which  may  be  repeated  by  the  Minister,  at  intervals  of  silence,  during  the 
participation. 

rpHE  Bread  which  we  break,  is  the  communion  of 
J-      the  Body  of  Christ. 

I  am  the  Bread  of  life,  saith  Jesus  :  he  that  cometh 
to  Me  shall  never  hunger ;  and  he  that  bclieveth  on 
Me  shall  never  thirst. 

The  Son  of  Man  came,  to  give  His  life  a  ransom  for 
many. 

He  was  wounded  for  our  transgressions,  He  was 
bruised  for  our  iniquities  :  the  chastisement  of  our 
peace  was  upon  Him ;  and  with  His  stripes  we  are 
healed. 


100      The  Manner  of  Celebrating 

He  was  oppressed,  and  He  was  afflicted;  yet  He 
opened  not  His  mouth. 

Surely  !He  hath  borne  our  griefs,  and  carried  our 
sorrows. 

Behold  the  Lamb  of  God,  which  taketh  away  the 
sin  of  the  world. 

This  is  a  faithful  saying,  and  worthy  of  all  accepta- 
tion, that  Christ  Jesus  came  into  the  world  to  save 
sinners  ;  of  whom  I  am  the  chief 

Come  unto  Him,  all  ye  that  labour  and  are  heavy 
laden,  and  He  will  give  you  rest.  Take  His  yoke  upon 
you,  and  learn  of  Him  :  for  He  is  meek  and  lowly  in 
heart :  and  ye  shall  find  rest  unto  your  souls. 

And  now,  little  children,  abide  in  Him  ;  that  when 
He  shall  appear,  we  may  have  confidence,  and  not  be 
ashamed  at  His  coming. 

rpHE  Cup  of  Blessing  which  we  bless,  is  the  commu- 
-^     nion  of  the  Blood  of  Christ. 

I  am  the  Vine,  saith  Jesus,  ye '  are  the  branches ; 
abide  in  Me  and  I  in  you. 

Greater  love  hath  no  man  than  this,  that  a  man  lay 
down  his  life  for  his  friends  :  ye  are  My  friends,  if  ye 
do  whatsoever  I  command  you. 


The  Lord's  Supper.  101 

God  so  loved  the  world,  that  He  gave  His  onlj- 
begotten  Son,  that  whosoever  believeth  in  Him  should 
not  perish,  but  have  everlasting  life. 

Hereby  perceive  we  the  love  of  God,  because  He 
laid  down  His  life  for  us  :  and  we  ought  to  lay  down 
our  lives  for  the  brethren.    ^ 

Behold,  what  manner  of  love  the  Father  hath  be- 
stowed upon  us,  that  we  should  be  called  the  sons  of 
God. 

We  know  that  when  He  shall  appear,  we  shall  be 
like  Him  :  for  we  shall  see  Him  as  He  is. 

It  is  a  faithful  saying,  If  we  be  dead  with  Him,  we 
shall  also  live  with  Him :  if  we  suffer,  we  shall  also 
reign  with  Him. 

Fear  not,  little  flock :  it  is  your  Father's  good 
pleasure  to  give  you  the  Kingdom. 

Eye  hath  not  seen,  nor  ear  heard,  neither  have  en- 
tered into  the  heart  of  men,  the  things  which  God 
hath  prepared  for  them  that  love  Him. 

Yet  a  little  while,  and  He  that  shall  come  will  come, 
and  will  not  tarry.     Even  so,  come.  Lord  Jesus. 

"  Then  tlio  Minister  is  to  pray  and  give  thanks  to  God. 


102    The  Mannek  of  Celebeating 

THANKSGIVINa. 

TJEAVENLY  Father!  we  give  Thee  immortal 
-*-^  praise  and  thanks,  that  upon  us  poor  sinners 
Thou  hast  conferred  so  rich  a  benefit,  as  to  bring  us 
into  the  communion  of  Thy  Son  Jesus  Christ  our 
Lord.  Him  having  delivered  up  to  death  for  us, 
Thou  hast  given  for  our  food  and  nourishment  unto 
eternal  life.  Now  also  grant  us  grace,  that  we*  may 
never  be  unmindful  of  these  things  ;  but  carrying  them 
about  engraven  on  our  hearts,  may  advance  and  grow 
in  that  faith  which  is  effectual  unto  every  good  work. 
Thus  may  the  rest  of  our  lives  be  ordered  and  followed 
out  to  Thy  glory,  and  the  good  of  our  fellow-men : 
Through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord :  "Who  with  Thee,  0 
Father  !  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  liveth  and  reigneth  in 
the  unity  of  the  Godhead,  world  without  end.     Amen. 


"  The  collection  for  tlie  poor,  and  to  defray  tlie  expense  of  the  elements,  may 
be  made  after  this ;  or  at  such  other  time  as  may  seem  meet  to  the  eldership." 


sentences, 

Which  may  be  read  during  the  collection  for  the  poor. 

■p  EMEMBER  the  words  of  the  Lord  Jesus,  how  He 
-*-^     said.  It  is  more  blessed  to  give  than  to  receive. 
Ye  know  the  grace  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  that, 


The  Lokd's  Supper.  103 

though  He  was  rich,  yet  for  your  sakes  He  became  poor, 
that  ye  through  His  poverty  might  be  rich. 

To  do  good  and  to  communicate  forget  not :  for  with 
such  sacrifices  God  is  well  pleased. 

Every  man  according  as  he  purposeth  in  his  heart, 
so  let  him  give  ;  not  grudgingly,  or  of  necessity :  for 
God  loveth  a  cheerful  giver. 

If  there  be  first  a  willing  mind,  it  is  accepted  accord- 
ing to  that  a  man  hath,  and  not  according  to  that  he 
hath  not. 

Remember  the  words  of  the  Lord  Jesus,  how  He 
said,  Ye  have  the  poor  with  you  always,  and  when- 
soever ye  will  ye  may  do  them  good. 

As  we  have  therefore  opportunity,  let  us  do  good 
unto  all  men,  especially  unto  them  who  are  of  the 
Household  of  Faith. 

For  the  administration  of  this  service  not  only  sup- 
plieth  the  want  of  the  saints,  but  is  abundant  also  by 
many  thanksgivings  unto  God. 

God  is  not  unrighteous  to  forget  your  work  and  la- 
bour of  love,  which  ye  have  showed  toward  His 
Name,  in  that  ye  have  ministered  to  the  saints,  and 
do  minister. 

Thanks  be  to  God  for  His  unspeakable  gift. 


104  The  Lord's  Supper. 


"Now  let  a  Psalm  or  nymn  be  sung,  and  the  congregation  dismissed,  with 
the  following,  or  some  other  Gospel" 


BENEDICTION. 

1VT0 W  the  God  of  Peace,  that  brought  again  from 
-^^  the  dead  our  Lord  Jesus,  that  great  Shepherd 
of  the  sheep,  through  the  blood  of  the  everlasting 
covenant,  make  you  perfect  in  every  good  work  to  do 
His  Tvill,  working  in  you  that  which  is  well-pleasing 
in  His  sight,  through  Jesus  Christ;  to  Whom  be 
glory  for  ever  and  ever.     Amen. 


OTHER   FORMS 


CELEBRATION  OF  THE  LORD'S  SUPPER. 


EXHORTATION. 

"TvEARLY  BELOVED  in  the  Lord,  forasmuch  as 
-*-^  we  are  now  assembled  to  celebrate  the  holy 
Communion  of  the  body  and  blood  of  our  Saviour 
Christ,  let  us  consider  these  words  of  St.  Paul,  how 
he  exhorteth  all  persons  diligently  to  try  and  examine 
themselves,  before  they  presume  to  eat  of  that  bread, 
and  to  drink  of  that  cup.  For,  as  the  benefit  is  great, 
if  with  a  true  penitent  heart  and  lively  faith  we  re- 
ceive that  holy  sacrament,  for  then  we  spiritually  eat 
the  flesh  of  Christ,  and  drink  His  blood ;  then  we 
dwell  in  Christ,  and  Christ  in  us;  we  be  one  with 
Christ,  and  Christ  with  us  :  So  is  the  danger  great  if 
we  receive  the  same  unworthily;  for  then  we  be 
guilty  of  the  body  and  blood  of  Christ  our  Saviour ; 


106    Other  Forms  of   Celebrating 

we  eat  and  drink  our  own  condemnation,  not  discern- 
ing the  Lord's  body;  we  kindle  God's  wrath  against 
us,  and  provoke  His  punishment  upon  us. 

And,  therefore,  in  the  Name,  and  by  the  authority 
of  the  Eternal  God,  and  of  His  Son  Jesus  Christ,  I 
separate  from  this  Table  all  blasphemers  of  God,  all 
idolaters,  all  that  be  in  malice  or  envy,  all  persons 
disobedient  to  father  or  mother,  and  finally  all  such  as 
live  a  life  directly  fighting  against  the  will  ^f  God  : 
charging  them,  as  they  will  answer  in  the  presence  of 
Him  who  is  the  righteous  Judge,  that  they  presume 
not  to  profane  this  most  holy  Table. 

And  yet  this  I  pronounce  not  to  exclude  any  peni- 
tent person,  how  grievous  soever  his  sins  before  have 
been,  so  that  he  feel  in  his  heart  unfeigned  repentance 
for  the  same :  but  only  such  as  continue  in  sin  with- 
out repentance.  Neither  yet  is  this  pronounced 
against  such  as  aspire  to  a  greater  perfection  than 
they  can  in  this  present  life  attain.  For,  albeit  we 
feel  in  ourselves  much  frailty  and  wretchedness,  as 
that  we  have  not  faith  so  perfect  and  constant  as  we 
ought,  being  many  times  ready  to  distrust  God's 
goodness,  through  our  corrupt  nature ;  and  also  that 
we  are  not  so  thoroughly  given  to  serve  God,  neither 


The  Lord's  Supper.  107 

have  we  so  fervent  a  zeal  to  set  forth  His  glory,  as  our 
duty  requireth ;  feeling  still  such  rebellion  in  our- 
selves, that  we  have  need  daily  to  fight  against  the 
lusts  of  the  flesh :  yet,  nevertheless,  seeing  that  our 
Lord  hath  dealt  thus  mercifully  with  us,  that  He  hath 
printed  His  Gospel  in  our  hearts,  so  that  we  are  pre- 
served from  falling  into  despair  and  unbelief;  and 
seeing  that  He  hath  endued  us  with  a  will  and  desire 
to  renounce  and  withstand  our  own  affections,  with  a 
longing  for  His  righteousness,  and  the  keeping  of  His 
commandments :  We  may  be  now  right  well  assured, 
that  these  failures  and  manifold  imperfections  shall  be 
no  such  hiDdrance  against  us,  as  that  He  should  not 
accept  us,  and  count  us  worthy  to  come  to  His  spirit- 
ual Table.  For  the  end  of  our  coming  is  not  to  pro- 
test that  we  are  just  and  upright  in  our  lives ;  but 
contrariwise,  we  come  to  seek  our  life  and  perfection 
in  Jesus  Christ ;  acknowledging  in  the  meantime  that 
of  ourselves  we  are  children  of  wrath  and  condem- 
nation. 

Let  us  then  consider  this  Sacrament  as  a  precious 
medicine  for  all  poor  sick  creatures,  a  comfortable  help 
for  weak  souls ;  and  that  our  Lord  requireth  no  other 
worthiness  on  our  part,  than  this  :  that  we  unfeignedly 


108  Other  Forms  of  Celebrating 

acknowledge  our  sinfulness  and  imperfection.  Then 
to  the  end  that  we  may  be  worthy  partakers  of  His 
merits  and  most  comfortable  benefits,  which  is  the 
true  eating  of  His  flesh  and  drinking  of  His  blood, 
let  us  not  suffer  our  minds  to  wander  about  the  con- 
sideration of  these  earthly  and  corruptible  things, 
which  we  see  present  to  our  eyes  and  feel  with  our 
hands ;  to  seek  Christ  bodily  present  in  them,  as  if 
He  were  enclosed  in  the  bread  and  wine,  or  as  if  these 
elements  were  turned  and  ghanged  into  the  substance 
of  His  flesh  and  blood.  But  as  the  only  way  to  dis- 
pose our  souls  to  receive  nourishment,  relief,  and 
quickening  by  His  substance,  let  us  lift  up  our  minds 
by  faith  above  all  things  worldly  and  sensible,  and 
thereby  enter  into  heaven,  that  we  may  find  and  re- 
ceive Christ  where  He  dwelleth  undoubtedly,  very 
God  and  very  man,  in  the  incomprehensible  glory  of 
His  Father  :  to  Whom  be  all  praise,  honour,  and 
glory,  now  and  for  ever.     Amen. 

CONSECRATING   PRAYER. 

r\  FATHER  of  Mercy,  and  God  of  all  consola- 
^^  tion  !  Thou  whom  all  creatures  acknowledge 
and  confess  as  Governor  and  Lord :    It  becomes  us, 


The  Lord's  Supper.  109 

the  workmanship  of  Thy  hands,  at  all  times  to 
reverence  and  magnify  Thy  holy  Majesty :  for  that 
Thou  hast  created  us  in  Thine  image ;  but  chiefly 
that  Thou  hast  delivered  us  from  everlasting  death 
and  condemnation,  whereunto  we  were  drawn  by 
means  of  sin  :  from  the  bondage  whereof  neither  man 
nor  angel  was  able  to  set  us  free.  And  we  do 
praise  Thee,  0  Lord  I  that  rich  in  mercy,  and  in- 
finite in  goodness.  Thou  has  provided  our  redemption 
to  stand  in  Thine  only  and  well-beloved  Son  :  Whom 
of  very  love  Thou  didst  give  to  be  made  man  like 
unto  us  in  all  things,  sin  excepted ;  in  His  body  to 
receive  the  punishment  of  our  transgression :  by  His 
death  to  make  satisfaction  to  Thy  justice ;  and  through 
His  resurrection  to  destroy  him  that  was  the  author 
of  death,  and  so  to  bring  again  life  to  the  world,  from 
which  the  whole  ofispring  of  Adam  most  justly  was 
exiled. 

0  Lord  I  we  acknowledge  that  no  creature  is  able 
to  comprehend  the  length  and  breadth,  the  depth  and 
height,  of  that  Thy  most  excellent  love  :  which  moved 
Thee  to  show  mercy  where  none  was  deserved;  to 
promise  and  give  life  where  death  hath  gotten  the 
victory ;  to  receive  us  again  into  Thy  favour,  when  we 


110     Other  Forms  of  Celebrating 

could  do  nothing  but  rebel  against  Thy  law.  0  I^ord ! 
the  blind  dulness  of  our  corrupt  nature  will  not  suffer 
us  sufficiently  to  weigh  these  Thy  most  ample  benefits. 
Yet,  nevertheless,  at  the  command  of  Jesus  Christ 
our  Lord,  we  present  ourselves  at  this  His  Table, 
which  He  hath  left  to  be  used  in  remembrance  of  His 
death,  until  His  coming  again :  to  dedicate  ourselves 
unto  His  service,  renewing  our  vows,  and  engaging 
henceforth  to  obey  His  will ;  to  declare  and  witness 
before  the  world,  that  by  Him  alone  Thou  dost  ac- 
knowledge us  Thy  children ;  that  by  Him  alone  we 
have  access  to  Thy  throne  of  grace;  that  by  Him 
alone  we  are  brought  into  His  spiritual  Kingdom,  to 
eat  and  drink  at  His  Table ;  with  Whom  we  have  our 
conversation  even  now  in  heaven ;  and  by  Whom  our 
bodies  shall  be  raised  up  again  from  the  dust,  and 
shall  be  placed  with  Him  in  that  endless  joy,  which 
Thou,  0  Father  of  Mercy !  hadst  prepared  for  Thine 
elect  before  the  foundation  of  the  world  was  laid. 
And  these  most  inestimable  benefits,  we  acknowledge 
to  have  received  of  Thy  free  mercy  and  grace,  by 
Thine  only-begotten  Son  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord : 
for  the  which,  therefore,  we.  Thy  congregation,  moved 
by  Thy  Holy  Spirit,  will  render  all  thanks,  praise,  and 
glory,  for  ever  and  ever.     Amen. 


The  Loed's  Supper.  Ill 

:  THANKSGIVING. 

11 /TOST  Merciful  Father  !  we  render  Thee  all  praise, 
•^^-*-  thanks,  and  glory,  for  that  it  hath  pleased  Thee, 
of  Thy  great  mercies,  to  grant  us,  miserable  sinners, 
so  excellent  a  gift,  as  to  receive  nis  into  the  fellowship 
and  company  of  Thy  dear  Son  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord : 
Whom  Thou  hast  delivered  to  death  for  us,  and  given 
as  our  needful  food  and  nourishment  unto  everlasting 
life.  And  now  we  beseech  Thee  also.  Heavenly 
Father !  to  grant  our  prayer,  that  Thou  wilt  never 
suffer  us  to  forget  these  worthy  benefits ;  but  rather 
imprint  and  fasten  them  surely  in  our  hearts,  that  we 
may  grow  and  increase  daily  more  and  more  in  that 
true  faith,  which  is  continually  exercised  in  all  man- 
ner of  good  works.  Confirm  us,  0  Lord !  that  we 
may  stand  immoveable  in  the  profession  of  Thy  Name, 
to  the  advancement  of  Thy  glory,  who  art  God  over 
all  things,  blessed  for  ever.     So  be  it.     Amen. 

II. 

EXHORTATION. 

'TT'OU  are  invited  hither,  dear  Brethren,  to  be  guests 

-*-      at  this  holy  Table,  by  the  Lord's  command  ;  to 

receive  the  greatest  mercy,  and  to  perform  the  greatest 


112     OtherFormsof  Celebrating 

duty.  On  Christ's  part  all  things  are  made  ready. 
The  feast  is  prepared  for  you,  even  for  you  that  by  sin 
have  deserved  to  be  cast  out  of  the  presence  of  the 
Lord ;  for  you  that  have  so  oft  neglected  and  abused 
mercy  :  a  feast  of  the  body  and  blood  of  Christ,  free  to 
you,  but  dear  to  Him.  You  were  lost,  and  in  the  way 
to  be  lost  for  ever  ;  when  by  the  greatest  miracle  of 
condescending  love.  He  sought  and  saved  you.  You 
were  dead  in  sin,  condemned  by  the  law,  the  slaves  of 
Satan;  there  wanted  nothing  but  the  executing  stroke 
of  justice  to  have  sent  you  into  endless  misery  :  when 
our  Kedeemer  pitied  you  in  your  blood,  and  shed  His 
own  to  wash  and  heal  you.  He  suffered  who  was  of- 
fended, that  the  offender  might  not  suffer.  He  cried 
out  on  the  cross,  My  God,  my  God,  why  hast  Thou 
forsaken  me  ?  that  we,  who  had  deserved  it,  might  not 
be  everlastingly  forsaken.  He  died,  that  we  might 
live.  0,  how  should  this  mercy  of  redemption  affect 
you  !  See  here  Christ  dying,  in  this  holy  representa- 
tion !  Behold  the  sacrificed  Lamb  of  God,  that  taketh 
away  the  sin  of  the  world.  It  is  His  will  to  be  thus 
frequently  crucified  before  our  eyes.  0,  how  should 
we  be  covered  with  shame,  and  loathe  ourselves,  who 
have  both  procured  the  death  of  Christ  by  sin,  and  sin- 


The  Lord's  Supper.  113 

ned  against  it.  And  how  should  we  all  be  filled  with 
joy,  who  have  such  mysteries  of  mercy  opened,  and  so 
great  salvation  freely  offered  to  us.  0,  then,  hate  sin. 
0,  love  this  Saviour.  See  that  you  come  not  hither  with- 
out a  desire  to  be  more  holy  ;  nor  with  a  purpose  to  go 
on  in  wilful  sin.  Be  not  deceived,  God  is  not  mocked. 
But  if  you  heartily  repent,  and  consent  to  the  cove- 
nant, come,  and  welcome.  We  have  commission  from 
Christ  to  tell  you  that  you  are  welcome.  Let  no 
trembling,  contrite  soul  draw  back,  that  is  willing  to  be 
Christ's,  upon  His  covenant  terms :  but  believe  that 
Christ  is  much  inore  willing  to  be  yours.  He  was  first 
willing,  and  therefore  died  for  you,  and  made  the  cove- 
nant of  grace,  and  sent  to  invite  and  importune  you  to 
consent,  and  stayed  for  you  so  long,  and  gave  you  your 
repentance,  your  willingness,  and  desire.  Question  not 
then  His  willingness,  if  you  are  willing :  it  is  Satan 
and  unbelief  that  would  have  you  question  it,  to  the 
injury  both  of  Christ  and  you.  Come  near,  observe, 
believe,  and  wonder  at  the  riches  of  His  love  and  grace : 
for  He  hath  Himself  invited  you  to  see  and  taste,  that 
you  might  wonder.  You  are  sinners  :  but  He  inviteth 
you  to  receive  a  renewed,  sealed  pardon  of  your  sins, 
and  promises  to  give  you  more  of  His  Spirit  to  overcome 


114    Othee  Fokms  of   Celebrating 

them.  See  here  His  broken  body  and  His  blood,  the  tes- 
timonies of  His  willingness.  Thus  hath  He  sealed  the 
covenant,  which  pardoneth  all  your  sins,  and  secureth 
to  you  your  reconciliation  with  God,  and  your  adop- 
tion, and  your  right  to  everlasting  blessedness.  Deny 
not  your  consent,  but  heartily  give  up  yourselves  to 
Christ :  and  then  doubt  not  that  your  scarlet,  crimson 
sins  shall  be  made  as  white  as  wool  or  snow.  Object 
not  the  number  or  greatness  of  them  against  His  grace  : 
there  is  none  too  great  for  Him  to  pardon  to  penitent 
believers.  But  strive  you  then  for  great  loathing  of 
your  sins,  and  greater  love  to  such  a  God,  and  greater 
thanks  to  such  a  Saviour.  Unfeignedly  say,  I  am 
willing,  Lord,  to  be  wholly  Thine :  and  then  believ- 
ingly  take  Christ,  and  pardon,  and  life,  as  given  you 
by  His  own  appointment  in  the  sealed  covenant.  And 
remember  that  He  is  coming.  He  is  coming  with 
thousands  of  His  mighty  angels,  to  execute  judgment 
on  the  ungodly ;  but  to  be  glorified  in  His  saints,  and 
admired  in  all  that  do  believe.  And  then  we  shall 
have  greater  things  than  these.  Then  shall  you  see 
all  the  promises  fulfilled,  which  now  are  sealed  to  you, 
on  which  He  causeth  you  to  trust.  Eevive  now  your 
love  to  one  another,   and  forgive  those    that  have 


'    ■  The  Lord's  Supper.  115 

wronged  yoUj  and  delight  in  the  communion  of  saints  : 
and  then  you  shall  be  admitted  into  the  Church  tri- 
umphant, where,  with  perfect  saints,  you  shall  per- 
fectly rejoice,  and  love  and  praise  the  Lord  for  ever. 
Receive  now  a  crucified  Christ  here  represented,  and 
be  content  to  take  up  your  cross,  and  follow  Him. 
And  then  you  shall  reign  with  a  glorified  Christ,  in 
the  blessed  vision  and  fruition  of  that  God,  to  whom 
by  Christ  you  are  now  reconciled.  Let  faith  and  love 
be  working  upon  these  things,  whilst  you  are  at  this 
holy  Table. 

CONSECRATING   PRAYER. 

A  LMIGHTY  God,  Thou  art  the  Creator  and  the 
■^^  Lord  of  all  things.  Thou  art  the  sovereign  Maj- 
esty whom  we  have  ofiended.  Thou  art  our  most  lov- 
ing and  merciful  Father,  who  hast  given  Thy  Son  to 
reconcile  us  to  Thyself:  who  hath  ratified  the  new 
testament  and  covenant  of  grace  with  His  most  precious 
blood ;  and  hath  instituted  this  holy  Sacrament  to  be 
celebrated  in  remembrance  of  Him  till  His  coming. 
Sanctify  these  Thy  creatures  of  bread  and  wine,  which 
according  to  Thy  institution  and  command  we  set  apart 


116     Other  Forms  of  Celebrating 

to  this  holy  use,  that  they  may  be  sacramentally  the 
body  and  blood  of  Thy  Son  Jesus  Christ. 

Most  merciful  Saviour,  as  Thou  hast  loved  us  to 
the  death,  and  suffered  for  our  sins,  the  just  for  the 
unjust,  and  hast  instituted  this  holy  ordinance  to  be 
used  in  remembrance  of  Thee  till  Thy  coming :  We 
beseech  Thee,  by  Thine  intercession  with  the  Father, 
through  the  sacrifice  of  Thy  body  and  blood,  give  us 
the  pardon  of  our  sins,  and  Thy  quickening  Spirit, 
without  which  the  flesh  will  profit  us  nothing.  Re- 
concile us  to  the  Father  ;  nourish  us  as  Thy  members 
to  everlasting  life. 

Most  Holy  Spirit,  proceeding  from  the  Father  and 
the  Son ;  by  whom  Christ  was  conceived ;  by  whom 
the  prophets  and  apostles  were  inspired,  and  the  minis- 
ters of  Christ  are  qualified  and  called ;  Thou  that 
dwellest  and  workest  in  all  the  members  of  Christ, 
whom  thou  sanetifiest  to  the  image  and  for  the  service 
of  their  Head,  and  comfortest  that  they  may  show  forth 
His  praise  :  Illuminate  us,  that  by  faith  we  may  see 
Him  who  is  here  represented  to  us.  Soften  our 
hearts,  and  humble  us  for  our  sins.  Sanctify  and 
quicken  us,  that  we  may  relish  the  spiritual  food,  and 
feed  on  it  to  our  nourishment  and  growth  in  grace. 


The  Lord's  Supper.  117 

Shed  abroad  the  love  of  God  upon  our  hearts,  and 
draw  them  out  in  love  to  Him.  Fill  us  with  thank- 
fulness and  holy  joy,  and  with  love  to  one  another. 
Comfort  us  bj  witnessing  that  we  are  the  children  of 
God.  Confirm  us  for  new  obedience.  Be  Thou  the  earn- 
est of  our  inheritance,  and  seal  us  unto  everlasting  life. 
-  Accept  us,  0  Lord  !  who  resign  ourselves  unto 
Thee  as  Thine  own ;  and  with  our  thanks  and  praise, 
present  ourselves  a  living  sacrifice,  to  be  acceptable 
through  Christ,  useful  for  Thine  honour,  through 
time,  and  through  eternity.  Being  made  free  from 
sin,  and  become  Thy  servants,  let  us  have  our  fruit 
unto  holiness,  and  the  end  everlasting  life  :  Through 
Jesus  Christ  our  Lord  and  Saviour.     Amen. 

THANKSGIVING. 

11 /TOST  Glorious  God,  how  wonderful  Thy  power 
-^^-^  and  wisdom.  Thy  holiness  and  justice,  Thy 
love  and  mercy,  in  this  work  of  redemption,  by  the 
incarnation,  life,  death,  resurrection,  intercession,  and 
dominion  of  Thy  Son !  No  wisdom  or  power  in 
heaven'  or  earth  could  have  delivered  us  but  Thine. 
The  angels  desire  to  look  into  this  mystery :  the 
heavenly  host   do   celebrate  it   with  praises,   saying, 


118     Other  Forms  of   Celebrating 

Glory  to  God  in  the  highest,  and  on  earth  peace,  good 
will  toward  men.  The  whole  creation  shall  proclaim 
Thy  praises  :  Blessing,  honour,  glory,  and  power,  be 
unto  Him  that  sitteth  upon  the  throne,  and  unto  the 
Lamb  forever  and  ever.  Worthy  is  the  Lamb  that 
was  slain,  to  receive  power,  and  honour,  and  glory: 
for.  He  hath  redeemed  us  to  God  by  His  blood,  and 
made  us  kings  and  priests  unto  our  God.  And  hast 
Thou  indeed  forgiven  us  so  great  a  debt,  by  so  pre- 
cious a  ransom  ?  Wilt  Thou  indeed  give  us  to  reign 
with  Christ  in  glory,  and  see  Thy  face,  and  love  TJiee, 
and  be  loved  of  Thee  for  ever  ?  Yea,  Lord  !  Thou 
hast  forgiven  us,  and  wilt  glorify  us ;  for  Thou  art 
faithful  that  hast  promised.  0  set  our  affections  on 
the  things  above  :  let  our  conversation  be  in  heaven, 
from  whence  we  expect  our  Saviour  to  come  and 
change  us  into  the  likeness  of  His  glory.  Then  will 
we  perfectly  praise  and  worthily  magnify  Thee  for 
ever,  0  Father,  Son,  and  Holy  Ghost :  to  whom  be 
glory.     Amen. 

'     ':.':■      ;     •       III-  ■■■•  ^  •■     '■     ,  ■  ■'    ' 

EXHORTATION. 

THAT  we  may  now  celebrate  the   Supper  of  the 
Lord  to  our  comfort,  it  is  necessary,  first,  that 


The  Lokd's  Suppee.  119 

every  one  consider  by  himself  his  sins,  and  the  curse 
due  to  him  for  them:  to  the  end  that  he  may  abhor 
and  humble  himself  before  God  ;  considering  that  the 
wrath  of  God  against  sin  is  so  great,  that  rather  than 
it  should  go  unpunished,  He  hath  punished  the  same 
in  His  beloved  Son  Jesus  Christ,  with  the  bitter  and 
shameful  death  of  the  cross. 

Secondly,  Let  every  one  examine  his  own  heart, 
whether  he  doth  believe  this  faithful  promise  of  God  : 
that  all  his  sins  are  forgiven  him,  only  for  the  sake 
of  the  passion  and  death  of  Jesus  Christ ;  and  that 
the  perfect  righteousness  of  Christ  is  imputed  and 
freely  given  to  him  as  his  own ;  yea,  so  perfectly,  as 
if  he  had  in  his  own  person  satisfied  for  all  his  sins, 
and  fulfilled  all  righteousness. 

Thirdly,  Let  every  one  examine  his  own  conscience, 
whether  he  hath  resolved  henceforth  to  show  true 
thankfulness  to  God  in  his  whole  life,  and  to  walk 
uprightly  before  Him :  and  also  whether  he  hath  laid 
aside  unfeignedly  all  enmity,  hatred,  and  envy,  and 
doth  firmly  resolve  henceforward  to  walk  in  true  love 
and  peace  with  his  neighbour. 

All  those  who  are  thus  disposed,  God  will  certainly 
receive  in  mercy,  and  count  them  worthy  partakers  at 


120     Other  Forms  of  Celebrating 

the  table  of  His  Son  Jesus  Christ.  On  the  contrary, 
those  who  do  not  feel  this  testimony  in  their  hearts, 
eat  and  drink  judgment  to  themselves.  Therefore,  we 
also,  according  to  the  command  of  Christ  and  the 
Apostle  Paul,  admonish  all  those  who  know  them- 
selves to  be  defiled  with  the  following  sins,  to  keep 
themselves  from  the  Table  of  the  Lord ;  and  declare 
to  them  that  they  have  no  part  in  the  Kingdom  of 
Christ.  Such  as  are  idolaters ;  all  those  who  use  or 
confide  in  any  form  of  divination  ;  all  despisers  of  God 
and  of  His  Word,  and  of  the  holy  Sacraments;  all 
profane  or  false  swearers;  contentious  persons,  and 
those  that  live  in  hatred  and  envy  against  their  neigh- 
bours; all  unclean  persons,  drunkards,  thieves,  liars, 
slanderers,  covetous ;  and  all  who  lead  ofiensive  lives. 
These,  while  they  continue  in  such  sins,  shall  abstain 
from  this  meat  which  Christ  hath  ordained  only  for 
the  faithful ;  lest  their  judgment  and  condemnation  be 
made  the  heavier. 

But  this  is  not  designed,  dearly  beloved  brethren 
and  sisters  in  the  Lord,  to  deject  the  contrite  hearts  of 
the  faithful ;  as  if  none  might  come  to  this  Supper,  but 
such  as  are  without  sin.  For  we  do  not  come  to  this 
Supper  to  testify  thereby  that  we  are  perfect  and  right- 


The  Lokd's   Suppek.  121 

eous  in  ourselves :  but,  on  the  contrary,  since  we  are 
seeking  our  life  out  of  ourselves,  in  Jesus  Christ,  we 
acknowledge  by  this  very  service  that  we  lie  in  the 
midst  of  death.  Therefore,  notwithstanding  we  still 
find  many  short-comings  and  miseries  in  ourselves  :  as 
namely,  that  we  have  not  perfect  faith ;  and  that  we  do 
not  give  ourselves  to  serve  God  with  that  zeal  as  we 
are  bound ;  but  have  daily  to  strive  with  the  weakness 
of  our  faith,  and  the  evil  lusts  of  our  own  flesh: 
yet  since,  by  the  grace  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  we 
are  sorry  for  these  weaknesses,  and  earnestly  de- 
sirous to  fight  against  our  unbelief,  and  to  live  ac- 
cording to  all  the  commandments  of  God  :  Therefore 
we  rest  assured,  that  no  sin  or  infirmity  which  still 
against  our  will  remaineth  in  us,  can  hinder  us  from 
being  received  of  God  in  mercy,  and  thus  made  wor- 
thy partakers  of  this  heavenly  meat  and  drink. 

Let  us  now  also  consider  to  what  end  the  Lord  hath 
instituted  His  Supper :  namely,  That  we  do  it  in 
remembrance  of  Him.  Now  after  this  manner  are  we 
to  remember  Ilim  in  it.  First,  We  must  be  confi- 
dently persuaded  in  our  hearts,  that  our  Lord  Jesus 
Christ  was  sent  of  the  Father  into  the  world ;  He 
assumed  our  flesh  and  blood ;  He  bore  for  us  the  wrath 


122     Other  Forms  of  Celebrating 

of  God,  under  which  we  should  have  perished  ever- 
lastingly, from  the  beginning  of  His  incarnation  to  the 
end  of  His  life  upon  earth ;  especially  when  the  weight 
of  our  sins  and  of  the  wrath  of  God  pressed  out  of 
Him  the  bloody  sweat  in  the  garden,  where  He  was 
bound  that  our  bonds  might  be  loosed.  Afterwards 
He  suffered  innumerable  revilings,  that  we  might 
never  come  to  shame.  In  His  innocence  He  was  con- 
demned to  death,  that  we  might  be  acquitted  at  the 
judgment-seat  of  God.  Yea,  He  suffered  His  blessed 
body  to  be  nailed  on  the  Cross,  that  He  might  fasten 
thereon  that  handwriting  of  our  sins.  He  hath  also 
taken  upon  Himself  the  curse  due  to  us,  that  He 
might  fill  us  with  His  blessings ;  and  humbled  Him- 
self unto  the  deepest  reproach  and  pains  of  hell,  in 
body  and  in  soul,  on  the  tree  of  the  Cross,  when  He 
cried  with  a  loud  voice.  My  God,  my  God,  why  hast 
Thou  forsaken  me  :  that  we  might  be  made  nigh  unto 
God,  and  never  be  forsaken  of  Him.  And  finally  He 
confirmed  with  His  death,  and  the  shedding  of  His 
blood,  the  new  and  eternal  testament,  that  covenant  of 
grace  and  reconciliation ;  when  He  said,  It  is  finished. 
And  that  we  might  firmly  believe  that  we  belong  to 
this  covenant  of  grace,  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ  hath 


The  Lord's   Supper.  123 

ordained  this  Holy  Supper,  and  said,  This  do  in  re- 
membrance of  Me :  That  is,  as  often  as  ye  eat  of 
this  bread,  and  drink  of  this  cup,  ye  shall  thereby,  as 
by  a  sure  memorial  and  pledge,  be  admonished  and 
assured  of  this  my  hearty  love  and  faithfulness  toward 
you.  That  whereas  you  should  otherwise  have  suffered 
eternal  death.  I  have  given  my  body  to  the  death  of 
the  Cross,  and  have  shed  my  blood  for  you,  and  with 
my  crucified  body  and  shed  blood  do  nourish  your 
hungry  and  thirsty  souls  to  everlasting  life,  as  surely 
as  this  bread  is  broken  before  your  eyes,  and  this  eup 
is  given  to  you,  and  you  eat  and  drink  the  same  with 
your  mouth,  in  remembrance  of  Me. 

From  this  institution  of  the  Holy  Supper  of  our 
Lord  Jesus  Christ,  we  see  that  He  directs  our  faith 
and  trust  to  His  perfect  sacrifice,  once  offered  on  the 
Cross,  as  to  the  only  ground  of  our  salvation  ;  wherein 
He  is  become  to  our  hungry  and  thirsty  souls  the 
true  meat  and  drink  of  life  eternal.  For,  by  His 
death  He  hath  taken  away  the  cause  of  our  eternal 
death  and  misery ;  namely,  sin :  and  obtained  for  us 
the  life-giving  Spirit;  that  we  by  the  same,  which 
dwelleth  in  Christ  as  in  the  Head,  and  in  us  as  in  His 
members,  might  have  true  communion  with  Him,  and 


124       0th  EK    FOEMS    OF    C.ELEBEATING 

be  made  partakers  of  all  His  blessings,  of  life  eternal, 
righteousness,  and  glory.  And,  furthermore,  that  we 
bj  the  same  Spirit  may  also  be  united  as  members  of 
one  Body  in  true  brotherly  love ;  as  the  holy  Apostle 
saith.  For  we  being  many  are  one  bread  and  one  body : 
for  we  are  all  partakers  of  that  one  bread.  For  as 
out  of  many  grains  one  meal  is  ground  and  one  bread 
baked ;  and  out  of  many  berries  being  pressed  to- 
gether one  wine  floweth  and  mixeth  itself  together  :  so 
all  we,  who  by  a  true  faith  are  engrafted  into  Christ, 
shall  through  brotherly  love  be  one  body,  for  the  sake 
of  Christ  our  beloved  Saviour,  who  hath  first  so  ex- 
ceedingly loved  us.  And  this  we  shall  show  not  only 
in  word,  but  also  in  very  deed. 

Hereto  assist  us  the  Almighty  God  and  Father  of  our 
Lord  Jesus  Christ,  through  His  Holy  Spirit.     Amen. 

That  we  may  obtain  all  this,  let  us  humble  our- 
selves before  God,   and  with  true  faith  implore  His 


CONSECRATING   PRATER. 

/^  MOST  Merciful  God  and  Father!  we  beseech 
^-^  Thee  that  in  this  Supper,  by  which  we  celebrate 
the  glorious  remembrance  of  the  bitter  death  of  Thy 
beloved  Son  Jesus  Christ,  Thou  wilt  so  work  in  our 


The  Lord's  Supper.  125 

hearts  bj  Thy  Holy  Spirit,  that  with  true  confidence 
we  may  more  and  more  give  ourselves  up  unto  Thy 
Son  Jesus  Christ ;  that  our  burdened  and  fainting 
hearts  may,  through  the  power  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  be 
fed  and  comforted  with  His  true  body  and  blood,  yea, 
with  Him,  true  God  and  man,  that  only  heavenly 
Bread.  And  may  we  no  longer  live  in  our  sins,  but 
He  in  us  and  we  in  Him  ;  and  thus  be  true  partakers 
of  the  new  and  everlasting  covenant  of  grace.  May 
we  not  doubt  that  Thou  wilt  for  ever  be  our  gracious 
Father,  never  more  imputing  our  sins  unto  us ;  and 
providing  us,  as  Thy  beloved  children  and  heirs,  with 
all  things  necessary  as  well  for  the  body  as  the  soul. 
Grant  us  also  Thy  grace,  that  we  may  cheerfully  take 
upon  us  our  cross,  deny  ourselves,  confess  our  Saviour, 
and  in  all  tribulations  with  uplifted  heads  expect  our 
Lord  Jesus  Christ  from  heaven,  where  He  will  make 
our  mortal  bodies  like  unto  His  most  glorious  body, 
and  take  us  to  be  for  ever  with  Himself. 

Our  Father,  etc. 

Strengthen  us  also  by  this  holy  Supper  in  the 
Catholic  undoubted  Christian  Faith,  whereof  we  make 
confession  with  our  mouths  and  hearts,  saying  : 

I  believe  in  God,  etc. 


126    Othek  Forms  of   Celebrating 

rpHAT  we  may  now  be  fed  with  the  true  heavenly 
-■-  Bread,  Christ  Jesus,  let  us  not  cleave  with  our 
hearts  to  the  external  bread  and  wine,  but  let  us  lift 
them  up  on  high,  where  Christ  Jesus  is  our  Advocate, 
at  the  right  hand  of  His  heavenly  Father  ;  whither  all 
the  articles  of  our  faith  lead  us  :  not  doubting  that 
through  the  working  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  we  shall  be 
fed  and  refreshed  in  our  souls  with  His  body  and 
blood,  as  surely  as  we  receive  the  holy  bread  and  wiiie 
in  remembrance  of  Him. 

After  the  Communion,  the  Minister  shall  say : 

"RELOYED  in  the  Lord,  since  the  Lord  hath  now 
-*-^  fed  our  souls  at  His  Table,  let  us  therefore  jointly 
praise  His  holy  Name  with  thanksgiving,  and  every 
one  say  in  his  heart  thus  : 

Bless  th€  Lord,  0  my  soul :  and  all  that  is  within 
me,  bless  His  holy  Name. 

Bless  the  Lord,  0  my  soul :  and  forget  not  all  His 
benefits.        '    "-  '  • 

Who  forgiveth  all  thine  iniquities :  who  healeth  all 
thy  diseases.  •     ' 

Who  redeemeth  thy  life  from  destruction :  who 
crowneth  thee  with  loving-kindness  and  tender  mercies. 


The   Lokd's  Suppek.  127 

The  Lord  is  merciful  and  gracious  :  slow  to  anger, 
and  plenteous  in  mercy. 

He  hath  not  dealt  with  us  after  our  sins  :  nor  re- 
warded us  according  to  our  iniquities. 

For  as  the  heaven  is  high  above  the  earth  :  so  great 
is  His  mercy  toward  them  that  fear  Him. 

As  far  as  the  east  is  from  the  west :  so  far  hath 
He  removed  our  transgressions  from  us. 

Like  as  a  father  pitieth  his  children :  so  the  Lord 
pitieth  them  that  fear  Him. 

Who  hath  not  spared  His  own  Son,  but  delivered 
Him  up  for  us  all :  and  given  us  all  things  with 
Him. 

Therefore  God  commendeth  His  love  towards  us : 
in  that,  while  we  were  yet  sinners,  Christ  died  for 
us. 

Much  more  then,  being  now  justified  by  His  blood : 
we  shall  be  saved  from  wrath  through  Him. 

For  if,  when  we  were  enemies,  we  were  reconciled 
to  God  by  the  death  of  His  Son  :  much  more,  being 
reconciled,  we  shall  be  saved  by  His  life. 

Therefore  shall  my  mouth  and  heart  show  forth  the 
praises  of  the  Lord:  from  this  time  forth  for  ever- 
more.    Amen. 


128  The  Lord's  Supper. 

THANKSGIVING.      •  v  ' 

Let  every  one  say  with  an  attentive  heart : 

f\  ALMIGHTY,  Merciful  God  and  Father,  with  our 
^  whole  hearts  we  thank  Thee,  that  Thou  hast  of 
Thy  boundless  mercy  given  us  Thine  only-begotten 
Son,  to  be  our  Mediator,  and  the  sacrifice  for  our  sins, 
and  our  meat  and  drink  unto  life  eternal.  We  bless 
Thee  that  Thou  givest  us  lively  faith,  whereby  we  are 
made  partakers  of  such  Thy  benefits  :  and  hast  been 
pleased  that  Thy  beloved  Son  Jesus  Christ  should  or- 
dain His  holy  Supper  for  the  confirmation  of  the  same. 
Grant  then,  we  beseech  Thee,  0  faithful  God  and 
Father,  that  through  the  working  of  Thy  Holy  Spirit, 
this  remembrance  made  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ, 
and  this  showing  forth  of  His  death,  may  tend  to  the 
daily  increase  of  our  faith  and  saving  fellowship  with 
Him  :  unto  Whom,  as  unto  Thee,  0  Father  !  and  the 
Holy  Ghost,  be  honour  and  praise  for  ever.     Amen.   - 


THE     FORM 


OF    ADMINISTERINa 


THE    SACRAMENT    OP    BAPTISM 


THE    FORM 


OF    ADMINISTERING 

THE    SACRAMENT    OF    BAPTISM 


"  Baptism  is  not  to  be  unnecessarily  delayed ;  nor  to  be  administered,  in  any 
case,  by  any  private  person :  but  by  a  Minister  of  Christ,  called  to  be  a  steward 
of  the  Mysteries  of  God. 

'•'  It  is  usually  to  be  administered  In  tbe  Cburcb,  in  the  presence  of  tbe  con- 
gregation; and  it  is  convenient  that  it  be  performed  immediately  after 
sermon. 

"  After  previous  notice  is  given  to  the  Minister,  the  child  to  be  baptized  is 
to  be  presented,  by  one  or  both  of  the  parents,  signifying  their  desire  that  the 
child  may  be  baptized. 

"  Before  Baptism,  let  the  Minister  use  some  words  of  instruction,  respecting 
the  institution,  nature,  use,  and  ends  of  this  ordinance  ;  showing 

"  '  That  it  is  instituted  by  Christ ;  that  it  is  a  seal  of  the  righteousness  of 
faith ;  that  the  seed  of  the  faithful  have  no  less  a  right  to  this  ordinance,  under 
the  Gospel,  than  the  seed  of  Abraham  to  circumcision,  under  the  Old  Testa- 
ment ;  that  Christ  commanded  all  nations  to  be  baptized ;  that  He  blessed 
little  children,  declaring  that  of  such  is  the  kingdom  of  heaven;  that  children 
are  federally  holy,  and  therefore  ought  to  be  baptized ;  that  we  are,  by  nature, 
sinful,  guilty,  and  polluted,  and  have  need  of  cleansing  by  the  blood  of  Christ, 
and  by  the  sanctifying  influences  of  the  Spirit  of  God.' ".. 


0 


UR  help  is  in  the  Name  of  the  Lord,  who  made 
heaven  and  earth.     Amen. 


Do  you  present  this  child  to  be  baptized  ? 
Answer :  We  do. 


132      The  Form  of  Administering 

/^UE.  Lord  showeth  us  in  what  poverty  and  misery 
^-^  we  all  are  born,  wlien  He  saith  that  we  must  be 
born  again.  For  if  a  renewal  of  our  nature  be  neces- 
sary, in  order  that  we  may  enter  the  Kingdom  of  God : 
This  signifies  that  it  is  originally  guilty  and  depraved. 
Thus  He  teacheth  us  that  we  must  humble  ourselves, 
and  become  displeased  with  ourselves ;  and  thus  He 
prepares  us  to  desire  and  seek  His  grace  :  whereby  all 
our  depravity  and  the  guilt  of  our  former  nature  shall  be 
done  away.  For  we  are  not  capable  of  receiving  that 
grace,  unless  we  be  first  emptied  of  all  confidence  in 
our  own  strength,  righteousness,  and  wisdom,  even  so 
as  to  condemn  all  that  is  in  ourselves. 

Now,  when  our  Lord  hath  shown  us  our  misery,  He 
doth  likewise  comfort  us  by  His  merciful  assurance: 
promising  to  regenerate  us  by  His  Holy  Spirit  in  a 
new  life,  that  shall  be  to  us  as  it  were  an  entrance 
into  His  Kingdom.  This  regeneration  consists  of  two 
parts  :  First,  That  we  renounce  ourselves,  not  follow- 
ing our  own  reason,  pleasure,  and  will ;  but  bringing 
into  subjection  our  understanding  and  afiections  to  the 
wisdom  and  righteousness  of  Ood ;  and  mortifying  all 
that  is  of  us  and  of  our  flesh.  And  secondly.  That 
we  follow  God's  light,  obeying  and  delighting  our- 


The  Sacrament  of   Baptism.      133 

selves  in  His.  good  pleasure,  as  He  manifests  it  by  His 
Word,  and  leads  us  to  it  by  His  Spirit.  The  fulfil- 
ment of  both  these  parts  is  to  be  found  in  our  Lord 
Jesus  Christ ;  Whose  passion  and  death  are  of  such 
power,  that,  participating  in  them,  we  become  as  it  were 
buried  unto  sin,  that  our  carnal  lusts  may  be  morti- 
fied and  slain.  So  too  by  the  power  of  His  resurrec- 
tion, we  are  raised  to  newness  of  life  in  God,  by  so 
much  as  His  Spirit  conducts  and  governs  us,  to  work 
in  us  the  things  that  are  well-pleasing  to  Him.  But 
the  first  and  principal  point  of  our  salvation  is,  that 
by  His  mercy  He  remits  to  us  all  our  offences,  not  im- 
puting them  unto  us,  but  destroying  even  the  re- 
membrance of  them,  that  they  come  not  into  account 
at  His  judgment. 

These  benefits  are  conferred  when  God  is  pleased  to 
incorporate  us  into  His  Church  by  Baptism.  For  in 
this  Sacrament  He  testifies  to  us  the  remission  of  our 
sins.  And  for  this  cause  He  ordained  the  sign  of 
water,  figuring  to  us  that  as  by  this  element  the  stains 
of  the  body  are  cleansed,  so  He  is  willing  to  wash  and 
purify  our  souls,  that  no  spot  may  any  longer  appear 
upon  them.  Here  also  He  doth  represent  to  us  our 
regeneration ;  which,  as  we  have  said,  consists  in  the 


134      The  Form  of  Administering 

mortifying  of  our  flesh,  and  the  spiritual  life,  which 
He  produces  in  us.  Thus  we  receive  in  Baptism  a 
twofold  benefit  from  our  God ;  provided  that  we  de- 
stroy not  the  virtue  of  this  sacrament  by  our  ingrati- 
tude :  to  wit,  We  have  here  a  sure  pledge  that  God  is 
willing  to  be  our  propitiated  Father,  not  imputing  to 
us  our  sins  and  offences ;  and  secondly,  that  He  will 
assist  us  by  His  Holy  Spirit,  to  fight  against  the  devil, 
sin,  and  the  lusts  of  our  flesh,  even  so  as  to  gain  the 
victory  over  them,  and  to  live  in  the  liberty  of  His  king- 
dom, which  is  a  kingdom  of  righteousness  and  peace. 
Since,  therefore,  these  two  things  are  accomplished  in 
us  by  the  grace  of  Christ,  it  follows  that  the  virtue 
and  the  substance  of  Baptism  are  both  included  in 
Him.  And  in  fact  we  have  no  other  cleansing  than 
by  His  blood ;  and  we  have  no  other  renewal  than  by 
His  death  and  resurrection ;  and  the  same  blessings 
that  He  communicates  to  us  by  His  Word,  He  also 
distributes  to  us  by  His  Sacraments. 

But  our  gracious  God  is  not  content  to  have  adopted 
us  for  His  children,  and  received  us  into  the  com- 
munion of  His  Church  :  He  hath  chosen  more  fully  to 
extend  His  goodness  over  us ;  promising  that  He  will 
be  our  God,  and  the  God  of  our  seed,  unto  a  thousand 


The   Sacrament  of  Baptism.      135 

generations.  And  although  the  children  of  believers 
belong  to  the  corrupt  race  of  Adam,  He  nevertheless 
fails  not  to  accept  them  by  virtue  of  this  Covenant, 
and  adopt  them  into  the  number  of  His  People. 
Hence  from  the  beginning  He  chose  that  in  His 
Church  the  children  should  receive  the  sign  of  cir- 
cumcision, whereby  He  then  represented  all  that  to- 
day is  manifested  in  Baptism.  And  as  He  command- 
ed that  they  should  be  circumcised,  so  He  adopted 
them  for  His  children,  and  called  Himself  their  Ood, 
as  He  was  the  God  of  their  fathers. 

Now,  therefore,  since  our  Lord  Jesus  came  down  to 
earth,  not  to  diminish  the  grace  of  God  His  Father, 
but  so  to  enlarge  the  Covenant  of  salvation  which  then 
was  confined  to  the  people  of  the  Jews,  as  to  include 
the  whole  world  :  there  can  be  no  doubt  that  our  chil- 
dren are  the  heirs  of  that  life  which  He  hath  promised 
to  grant.  And  for  this  cause  St.  Paul  hath  said,  that 
they  are  sanctified  of  God  from  the  womb,  that  they 
may  be  distinguished  from  the  children  of  heathen  and 
unbelievers.  And  therefore  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ 
received  the  children  that  were  brought  to  Him,  as  it 
is  written  in  the  Gospel :  ^ 


136      The  Form  ofAdministering 

rpHEN  were  there  brought  unto  Him  little  children, 
-*-  that  He  should  put  His  hands  on  them,  and  pray : 
and  the  disciples  rebuked  them.  But  Jesus  said.  Suf- 
fer little  children,  and  forbid  them  not,  to  come  unto 
Me  ;  for  of  such  is  the  kingdom  of  heaven. 

Since  then  He  declares  that  the  kingdom  of  heaven 
belongs  unto  them ;  since  He  layeth  His  hands  upon 
them,  and  commendeth  them  to  God  His  Father  :  He 
doth  sufficiently  teach  us,  that  we  must  not  exclude 
them  from  His  Church.  Therefore,  in  pursuance  of 
this  rule,  we  shall  receive  this  child  into  His  Church, 
to  the  end  that  he  moj  be  made  partaker  of  the  bless- 
ings which  God  hath  promised  to  the  faithful.  And 
first  of  all  we  shrill  present  him  to  God  by  our  prayers, 
humbly  saying  with  all  our  hearts  thus  : 

"  Then  the  Minister  is  to  pray  for  a  blessing  to  attend  this  ordinance." 
PRAYER. 

T  ORD  God,  Eternal  and  Almighty  Father !  since  it 
-^  hath  pleased  Thee  of  Thine  infinite  mercy  to 
promise,  that  Thou  wilt  be  a  God  to  us  and  to  our  chil- 
dren :  We  pray  Thee  to  confirm  this  grace  unto  the 
child  here  present,  begotten  and  born  of  parents  whom 
Thou  hast  called  into  Thy  Church.     And  even  as  he 


The  Sacrament  of  Baptism.     137 

is  offered  and  consecrated  unto  Thee  by  us,  so  wilt 
Thou  receive  him  into  Thy  holy  protection,  declaring 
Thyself  to  be  his  God  and  Saviour,  forgiving  him  the 
original  sin  whereof  the  whole  race  of  Adam  is  guilty, 
and  sanctifying  him,  by  Thy  Holy  Spirit :  that  when 
he  shall  come  to  years  of  discretion,  he  may  know  and 
worship  Thee  as  his  only  God,  and  glorify  Thee 
throughout  all  his  life.  And  to  obtain  such  mercies, 
wilt  Thou  be  pleased  to  incorporate  him  into  the  fel- 
lowship of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  that  he  may  have  a 
part  in  all  His  benefits,  as  a  member  of  His  Body. 
Grant,  Father  of  Mercies,  that  the  Baptism  we  confer 
upon  him  according  to  Thine  Ordinance,  may  produce 
its  fruit,  and  manifest  its  power,  even  as  Thou  hast 
declared  in  the  Gospel  of  Thy  Son :  Who  hath  taught 
us  to  say  : 

r\UR  Father  which  art  in  heaven.  Hallowed  be  Thy 
"  Name.  Thy  kingdom  come.  Thy  will  be  done 
in  earth,  as  it  is  in  heaven.  Give  us  this  day  our 
daily  bread.  And  forgive  us  our  debts,  as  we  forgive 
our  debtors.  And  lead  us  not  into  temptation,  but 
deliver  us  from  evil :  For  Thine  is  the  kingdom,  and 
the  power,  and  the  glory,  for  ever.     Amen. 


138      The  Form  of  Administering 


'  The  Minister  is  also  to  exhort  the  oarents  to  the  careful  performance  of 
theii.*  duty:  requiring, 


A  S  this  child  is  to  be  received  into  the  fellowship  of 
-^^  the  Christian  Church,  you  do  promise,  when  he 
is  come  to  years  of  discretion,  to  instruct  him  in  the 
doctrine  embraced  by  God's  People,  and  summarily 
comprehended  in  our  common  Confession  of  Faith,  to 
wit: 

I  believe  in  God  the  Father  Almighty,  Maker  of 
heaven  and  earth  :  and  in  Jesus  Christ  His  only  Son, 
our  Lord ;  who  was  conceived  by  the  Holy  Ghost,  born 
of  the  Virgin  Mary,  suffered  under  Pontius  Pilate,  was 
crucified,  dead,  and  buried ;  He  descended  into  hell ; 
the  third  day  He  rose  again  from  th€  dead ;  He  as- 
cended into  heaven,  and  sitteth  on  the  right  hand  of 
God  the  Father  Almighty ;  from  thence  He  shall  come 
to  judge  the  quick  and  the  dead.  I  believe  in  the 
Holy  Ghost ;  the  holy  Catholic  Church,  the  Commu- 
nion of  Saints  ;  the  forgiveness  of  sins ;  the  resurrec- 
tion of  the  body  ;  and  the  life  everlasting.     Amen. 

You  promise  that  you  will  teach  this  child  to  read 
the  Word  of  God.  You  will  instruct  Aim  in  the  prin- 
ciples of  our  holy  Religion,  as  contained  in  the  Scrip- 
tures of  the  Old  and  New  Testaments.     You  will  teach 


The   Sacramentof   Baptism.    139 

him  to  repeat  the  Catechisnij  the  Apostles'  Creed,  and 
the  Lord's  Prayer.  You  will  praj  with  and  for  this 
child ;  you  will  set  an  example  of  piety  and  godliness 
before  him  ;  and  endeavour,  by  all  the  means  of  God's 
appointment,  to  bring  him^  up  in  the  nurture  and  ad- 
monition of  the  Lord. 


" These  premises  being  made,  the  child  shall  be  named;  and  the  Minister 
calling  Mm  by  Ms  name,  shall  say : 


I 


BAPTIZE  thee  in  the  Name  of  the  Father,  and 
of  the  Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost. 


"As  he  pronounces  these  words,  he  is  to  baptize  the  child  with  water,  by 
pouring  or  sprinkling  on  the  face  of  the  child,  without  adding  any  other  cere- 
mony :  and  the  whole  shall  be  concluded  with  prayer." 


THANKSGIVING. 

TTfE  lift  up  our  eyes  unto  Thee,  most  Holy  and 
*  '  Merciful  Father  !  Who  not  only  dost  bless  us 
with  the  common  benefits  bestowed  upon  mankind,  but 
also  dost  lavish  the  precious  and  wonderful  gifts  of 
Thy  Gospel  upon  us :  and  we  give  Thee  most  humble 
thanks  for  Thine  infinite  goodness  :  that  Thou  hast 
numbered  us  among  Thy  Saints,  and  of  Thy  free  grace 
hast  called  our  children  unto  Thee ;  marking  them 
with  this  Sacrament,  as  a  singular  badge  and  token 


140      The  Sacrament  of  Baptism. 

of  Thy  love.  Wherefore,  most  loving  Father  !  though 
we  deserve  not  so  great  a  benefit,  we  beseech  Thee 
for  Christ's  sake  to  confirm  Thy  favour  more  and 
more  towards  us  :  and  take  into  Thy  tuition  and  de- 
fence, this  child,  whom  we  ofier  and  present  unto  Thee 
with  our  common  supplications.  Suffer  him  never  to 
fall  into  ingratitude,  and  to  lose  the  force  of  Baptism ; 
but  may  he  perceive  Thee  continually  to  be  his  Mer- 
ciful Father,  through  Thy  Holy  Spirit  working  in 
his  heart ;  by  whose  divine  power  he  may  so  prevail 
against  Satan,  that  in  the  end  obtaining  the  victory, 
he  inay  be  exalted  into  the  liberty  of  Thy  Kingdom: 
Through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 


OTHER   FORMS 


FOB  triIB   ADMINISTERING   OF 


THE    SACEAMENT  OF  BAPTISM 


^  «»■»».  ». 


I. 

ADDRESS. 

r  ET  US  consider,  dearly  beloved,  how  Almighty  God 
-^  hath  not  only  made  us  His  children  by  adoption, 
receiving  us  into  the  fellowship  of  His  Church :  but 
also  hath  promised  that  He  will  be  our  God.  and  the 
God  of  our  children,  unto  a  thousand  generations. 
Which  promise,  confirmed  to  His  People  in  the  Old 
Testament  by  the  Sacrament  of  Circumcision,  He 
hath  renewed  to  us  in  His  New  Testament  by  the 
Sacrament  of  Baptism  :  giving  us  thereby  to  know, 
that  our  infants  belong  to  Him  by  covenant,  and  there- 
fore ought  not  to  be  deprived  of  those  holy  signs  and 
badges,  whereby  His  children  are  known  from  un- 
believers. 

Neither  is  it  requisite  that  all  those  who  receive  this 


142    Othee  Forms  of  Administering 

Sacrament  should  have  the  use  of  understanding  and 
faith  :  but  chiefly  that  they  be  contained  under  the 
name  of  God's  People,  so  that  remission  of  sins  in  the 
blood  of  Christ  Jesus  doth  pertain  unto  them  by  the 
promise  of  God.  This  is  most  evident  from  the  words 
of  St.  Paul,  who  pronounces  the  children  begotten 
and  born,  either  of  the  parents  being  faithful,  to  be 
clean  and  holy.  Also  our  Saviour  Christ  admitteth 
children  to  His  presence,  embracing  and  blessing 
them.  Which  testimonies  of  the  Holy  Ghost  assure 
us,  that  infants  are  of  the  number  of  God's  People, 
and  that  remission  of  sins  doth  also  belong  to  them  in 
Christ.  •  Therefore  they  can  not  without  injury  be 
debarred  from  the  common  sign  of  God's  children. 

Further,  it  is  evident  that  Baptism  was  ordained  to 
be  ministered  in  the  element  of  water,  to  teach  us 
that,  like  as  water  outwardly  doth  wash  away  the  filth 
of  the  body,  so  inwardly  doth  the  virtue  of  Christ's 
blood  cleanse  our  souls  from  that  corruption  wherewith 
by  nature  we  were  infected ;  whose  venomous  dregs, 
although  they  continue  in  this  our  flesh,  yet  by  the 
merits  of  His  death  are  not  imputed  unto  us,  because 
the  righteousness  of  Jesus  Christ  is  made  ours  by  Bap- 
tism.    Not  that  we  deem  any  such  virtue  or  power  to 


The  Sacrament  of   Baptism.      143 

be  included  in  the  visible  water,  or  outward  action; 
for  many  have  been  baptized,  and  yet  never  inwardly 
cleansed :  But  that  our  Saviour  Christ,  who  command- 
ed Baptism  to  be  ministered,  will,  by  the  power  of 
His  Holy  Spirit,  effectually  work  in  the  hearts  of 
His  Elect,  in  time  convenient,  all  that  is  meant  and 
signified  by  the  same.  And  this  the  Scripture  calls 
our  regeneration ;  which  consists  chiefly  in  these  two 
points :  mortification,  that  is  to  say  a  resisting  of  the 
rebellious  lusts  of  the  flesh ;  and  newness  of  life, 
whereby  we  continually  strive  to  walk  in  the  pureness 
and  perfection  wherewith  we  are  clad  in  Baptism. 

And  although  in  the  journey  of  this  life  we  are  as- 
sailed with  many  foes,  yet  do  we  not  fight  without 
fruit.  For  this  constant  battle  which  we  wage  against 
sin,  death,  and  hell,  is  a  most  infallible  argument  that 
God  the  Father,  mindful  of  His  promise  made  unto 
us  in  Christ  Jesus,  doth  not  only  give  us  desire  and 
courage  to  resist  them,  but  also  assurance  to  overcome. 
Wherefore,  dearly  deloved,  it  is  not  only  necessary 
that  we  be  once  baptized,  but  also  it  profiteth  much  to 
be  often  present  at  this  ministration ;  that  being  put 
in  mind  of  the  league  and  covenant  made  between  God 
and  us,  that  He  will  be  our  God,  and  we  His  People, 


144    Other  Poems  of  Administeking 

He  our  Father,  and  we  His  childreiij  we  may  have 
occasion  to  try  as  well  our  past  lives  as  our  present 
conversation;  and  to  prove  ourselves,  whether  we 
stand  fast  in  the  faith  of  God's  Elect,  or  have  strayed 
from  Him  through  unbelief  and  ungodly  lives.  If  our 
consciences  do  thus  accuse  us,  yet  by  hearing  the  lov- 
ing promises  of  our  heavenly  Father,  who  calls  all 
men  to  mercy  by  repentance,  we  may  henceforth  walk 
more  warily  in  our  vocation.  Moreover,  ye  that  be 
fathers  and  mothers,  should  take  peculiar  comfort  in 
seeing  your  children  thus  received  into  the  bosom  of 
Christ's  Congregation:  whereby  you  are  admonished 
to  nourish  and  bring  up  the  children  of  God's  favour 
and  mercy,  over  whom  His  fatherly  providence  con- 
tinually watches. 

And  as  this  ought  greatly  to  rejoice  you,  knowing 
that  nothing  can  happen  unto  them  without  His  good 
pleasure,  so  should  it  make  you  diligent  and  careful  to 
nurture  and  instruct  them  in  the  true  knowledge  and 
fear  of  God.  Wherein  if  ye  be  negligent,  ye  do  not 
only  injure  your  own  children,  hiding  from  them  the 
good  will  and  pleasure  of  Almighty  God  their  Father  : 
but  also  you  heap  upon  yourselves  judgment,  in  suffer- 
ing His  children,  bought  with  the  blood  of  His  dear 


The  Sacrament  of   Baptism.      145 

Son,  so  treacherously  for  lack  of  knowledge  to  turn 
away  from  Him.  Hence  it  is  your  duty  with  all  dili- 
gence to  provide  that  your  children,  in  due  time,  be 
instructed  in  all  knowledge  necessary  for  a  true  Chris- 
tian: chiefly  that  they  be  taught  to  rest  upon  the 
righteousness  of  Christ  Jesus  alone,  and  to  abhor  and 
flee  all  superstition  and  idolatry.  And  now  to  the 
intent  that  we  may  be  assured  that  you,  the  parents 
of  this  child,  consent  to  the  performance  of  all  this : 
Declare  here,  before  the  face  of  God's  Congregation, 
the  sum  of  that  Faith  wherein  ye  believe,  and  will  in- 
struct your  child. 


Then  the  father,  or  in  his  absence  the  godfather,  shall  rehearse  the  articles 
of  his  faith,  as  follows : 


I  believe  in  God,  etc. 


PRAYER. 

A  LMIGHTY  and  Everlasting  God,  who  of  Thine 
■^^  infinite  mercy  and  goodness  hast  promised  unto 
us  that  Thou  wilt  be  not  only  our  God,  but  also  the 
God  and  Father  of  our  children  :  We  beseech  Thee, 
that  having  called  us  to  be  partakers  of  this  Thy  great 
mercy,  in  the  fellowship  of  faith,  it  may  please  Thee 
to  sanctify  with  Thy  Holy  Spirit,  and  to  receive  into 


146    Other  Forms  of  Administering 

the  number  of  Thy  children  this  infant,  whom  we 
shall  baptize  according  to  Thy  Word :  That  Ae,  com- 
ing to  perfect  age.  may  confess  Thee  the  only  true 
God,  and  Jesus  Christ  whom  Thou  hast  sent ;  and 
may  so  serve  Him,  and  be  profitable  unto  His  Church, 
in  the  whole  course  of  his  life,  that  this  life  ended,  he 
may  be  brought,  as  a  lively  member  of  His  body,  unto 
the  full  fruition  of  Thy  joys  in  the  heavens :  where 
Thy  Son,  our  Saviour  Christ,  reigneth  with  Thee  and 
the  Holy  Ghost,  world  without  end.  And  in  His 
Name  we  pray,  as  He  hath  taught  us,  saying : 
Our  Father,  etc. 

The  administration  of  the  ordinance  as  in  the  preceding  form. 

II. 
ADDRESS.     • 

T)APTISM  is  an  holy  Sacrament  instituted  by 
-*-^  Christ :  in  which  a  person  professing  the  Chris- 
tian Faith,  or  the  infant  of  such,  is  baptized  with  water 
into  the  Name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and  of 
the  Holy  Ghost :  in  signification  and  solemnization  of 
the  holy  covenant  in  which  as  a  believer,  or  the  seed 
of  believers,  he  giveth  up  himself,  or  is  by  the  parent 
given  up,  to  God  the  Father,  Son,  and  Holy  Ghost : 


The   Sacrament  of  Baptism.      147 

to  believe  in,  love,  and  fear  this  blessed  Trinity,  against 
the  flesh,  the  devil,  and  the  world.  Thus  he  is  sol- 
emnly entered  a  visible  member  of  Christ  and  His 
Church,  a  child  of  God,  and  an  heir  of  heaven.  How 
great  now  is  this  mercy,  and  how  great  the  duty^that 
is  before  you  !  Is  it  a  small  mercy ^  for  this  child  to 
be  accepted  into  the  covenant  of  God,  and  washed  from 
his  original  sin  in  the  blood  of  Christ — which  is  sig- 
nified and  sealed  by  this  sacramental  washing  in  water : 
■ — to  be  accepted  as  a  member  of  Christ  and  of  His 
Church,  where  He  vouchsafes  His  protection  and  pro- 
vision, and  the  means  and  Spirit  of  grace,  and  the  re- 
newed pardon  of  sin  upon  repentance  ?  The  diity  on 
your  part  is,  first,  to  see  that  you  are  stedfast  in  the 
faith  and  covenant  of  Christ ;  that  you  perish  not 
yourself;  that  your  child  is  indeed  the  child  of  a  be- 
liever :  And  then,  you  are  believingly  and  thankfully 
to  dedicate  your  child  to  God,  and  to  enter  him  into 
the  covenant  in  which  you  stand.  And  you  must 
know  that  your  faith,  and  consent,  and  dedication,  will 
suffice  for  your  children  no  longer  than  until  they 
come  to  age  themselves  :  and  then  they  must  own 
their  baptismal  covenant,  and  personally  renew  it,  and 
consent  and  give  themselves  up  to  God,  or  else  they 


148    Other  Forms  of  Administering 

will  not  be  owned  bj  Christ.  You  must  therefore  ac- 
quaint them  with  the  doctrine  of  the  Gospel  as  they 
grow  up,  and  with  the  covenant  now  made  :  and  bring 
them  up  in  the  fear  of  the  Lord.  And  when  they  are 
actually  penitent  believers,  they  must  present  them- 
selves to  the  Pastors  of  the  Church,  to  be  approved 
and  received  into  the  communion  of  the  adult  believers. 

The  Minister  shall  here  say  to  the  Parent,  and  the  Parent  answer,  as  fol- 
loweth: 

A  ND  now,  because  these  promises  are  made  only  to 
'^■*-  the  faithful  and  to  their  seed,  and  because  no 
man  can  sincerely  dedicate  his  child  to  that  God  in 
whom  he  believeth  not  himself:  I  therefore  require 
you  to  make  profession  of  your  own  faith. 

Do  you  believe  in  God  the  Father  Almighty,  Maker 
of  heaven  and  earth :  And  in  Jesus  Christ  His  only 
Son  our  Lord  ;  who  was  conceived  by  the  Holy  Ghost, 
born  of  the  Virgin  Mary,  suffered  under  Pont' us  Pi- 
late, was  crucified,  dead,  and  buried ;  He  descended 
into  hell ;  the  third  day  He  rose  again  from  the  dead ; 
He  ascended  into  heaven,  and  sitteth  on  the  right 
hand  of  God  the  Father  Almighty ;  from  thence  He 
shall  come  to  judge  the  quick  and  the  dead  ? 

Do  you  believe   in  the  Holy   Ghost;    the   Holy 


The  Sacrament  of  Baptism.      149 

Catholic  Church,  the  Communion  of  Saints ;  the  for- 
giveness of  sins ;  the  resurrection  of  the  body,  and 
the  life  everlasting  ? 

Answer :  All  this  I  unfeignedly  believe. 

Do  you  repent  of  your  sins,  and  renounce  the  flesh, 
the  devil,  and  the  world,  and  consent  to  the  Covenant 
of  Grace,  giving  up  yourself  to  God  the  Father,  Son, 
and  Holy  Ghost,  as  your  Creator  and  reconciled  Fa- 
ther, your  Redeemer  and  your  Sanctifier  ? 

Answer:  I  do. 

Do  you  here  solemnly  promise,  that,  if  God  con- 
tinue this  child  with  you  till  he  be  capable  of  instruc- 
tion, you  will  faithfully  endeavour  to  acquaint  him  with 
the  covenant  in  which  he  was  here  engaged  by  you, 
and  to  instruct  and  exhort  him  that  he  perform  this 
covenant  as  he  looks  for  the  blessings  upon  it,  or  to 
escape  the  curses  and  wrath  of  God ;  that  he  renounce 
the  flesh,  the  world,  and  the  devil,  and  live  not  after 
them ;  and  that  he  believe  in  this  one  God  in  three 
Persons,  the  Father,  Son,  and  Holy  Ghost,  his  Creator, 


150    Other  Foems  of  Administering 

Redeemer,  and  Sanctifier;  that  he  resign  himself  to 
Him  as  his  absolute  owner,  and  obey  Him  as  his  su- 
preme Governor,  and  love  Him  as  his  most  gracious 
Father,  hoping  to  enjoy  Him  as  His  felicity  in  end- 
less glory  ? 

Answer :  I  will  faithfully  endeavour  it. 

Will  you  to  this  end  faithfully  endeavour  to  cause 
him  to  learn  the  articles  of  the  Christian  Faith,  the 
Lord's  Prayer,  and  the  Ten  Commandments ;  and  to 
read  and  hear  the  Holy  Scriptures,  and  to  attend  on 
the  public  Preaching  of  God's  Word  ?  Will  you  en- 
deavour by  your  own  teaching,  and  example,  and  re- 
straint, to  keep  him  from  wickedness,  and  train  him 
up  in  a  holy  life  ?  - 

Answer :  I  w^ill  faithfully  endeavour  it,  by  the  help 
of  God. 

Then  let  the  Minister  pray  thus : 


0 


PRAYER. 

MOST  Merciful  Father !  by  the  first  Adam  sin 
entered  into  the  world,  and  death  by  sin;  and 


The  Sacrament  of  Baptism.      151 

we  are  all  by  nature  children  of  wrath.  But  Thou 
hast  given  Thy  only  Son  to  be  the  seed  of  the  woman, 
the  Saviour  of  the  world,  the  Captain  of  our  salvation ; 
to  put  away  sin  by  the  sacrifice  of  Himself,  and  to  wash 
us  in  His  bloody  and  reconcile  us  unto  Thee,  and  to 
renew  us  by  the  Holy  Ghost,  and  to  bruise  Satan 
under  our  feet.  In  Him  Thou  hast  established  the 
Covenant  of  Grace,  and  hast  appointed  this  holy  Sacra- 
ment of  Baptism  for  our  solemn  entrance  into  the 
bonds  of  the  Covenant,  and  instating  us  in  the  bless- 
ings of  it,  which  Thou  extendest  to  the  faithful  and 
their  seed.  We  dedicate  and  offer  this  child  to  Thee, 
to  be  received  into  Thy  Covenant  and  Thy  Church. 
We  beseech  Thee  to  accept  him  as  a  member  of  Thy 
Son,  and  wash  him  in  His  blood  from  the  guilt  of  sin, 
as  the  flesh  is  washed  by  this  water.  Be  reconciled  to 
him,  and  take  him  for  Thy  child.  Kenew  him  in  the 
image  of  Thy  Son  ;  make  him  a  fellow-citizen  with  the 
Saints,  and  of  Thy  household.  Protect  him  and  pro- 
vide for  him  as  Thine  own^  and  finally  preserve  him  to 
Thy  heavenly  Kingdom  :  Through  Jesus  Christ  our 
Lord  and  Saviour.     Amen. 


Then  the  Minister  shall  ask  of  the  parent  the  name  of  the  child  to  bo  bap- 
tized ;  and  naming  him,  shall  say : 


152    Other  Forms  OF  Administering 

T  BAPTIZE  thee  in  the  Name  of  the  Father,  and  of 
-^  .  the  Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost. 

And  lie  shall  thus  declare : 

/ 

rpmS  child  is  now  received  by  Christ's  appointment 
-*-  into  His  Church,  and  solemnly  entered  into  the 
holy  Covenant ;  and  engaged,  if  he  lives  to  the  use 
of  reason,  to  rise  with  Christ  to  newness  of  life,  being 
buried  with  Him  by  Baptism  ;  and  to  bear  His  Cross, 
and  confess  Christ  crucified,  and  manfully  to  fight 
under  His  banner  against  the  flesh,  the  devil,  and  the 
world,  and  to  continue  His  faithful  soldier  and  servant 
to  the  death,  that  he  may  receive  the  crown  of  life. 

Then  he  shall  give  thanks  and  pray. 
THANKSGIVING. 

"TTfE  give  Thee  thanks.  Most  Merciful  Father! 
*  ^  that  when  we  had  broken  Thy  law,  and  were 
condemned  by  it,  Thou  didst  give  us  a  Saviour,  and 
eternal  life  in  Him ;  and  hast  extended  Thy  Covenant 
of  Grace  to  believers  and  to  their  seed  ;  and  hast  now 
received  this  child  into  Thy  Covenant  and  Thy  Church, 
as  a  member  of  Christ,  by  this  Sacrament  of  regenera- 
tion. We  beseech  Thee,  let  him  grow  up  in  holiness  ; 
and  when  he  comes  to  years  of  discretion,  let  Thy 


The   Sackament  of   Baptism.      153 

Spirit  reveal  unto  him  the  mysteries  of  the  Gospel, 
and  the  riches  of  Thy  love  in  Jesus  Christ ;  and  cause 
him  to  renew  and  perform  the  covenant  that  he  hath 
now  made,  and  to  resign  himself,  and  all  that  he  hath, 
entirely  unto  Thee  his  Lord,  to  be  subject  and  obe- 
dient to  Thee  his  Governor,  and  to  love  Thee  his 
Father,  with  all  his  heart,  and  soul,  and  might.  May 
he  ever  adhere  unto  Thee,  and  delight  in  Thee,  as  the 
portion  of  his 'soul;  desiring  and  hoping  to  enjoy 
Thee  in  everlasting  glory.  Save  him  from  the  lusts 
and  allurements  of  the  flesh ;  the  temptations  of  the 
devil ;  the  pleasure,  profit,  and  honour  of  the  world ; 
from  all  the  corruptions  of  his  own  heart,  and  all  the 
hurtful  violence  of  his  foes.  Keep  him  in  communion 
with  Thy  saints,  in  the  love  and  use  of  Thy  Word  and 
worship.  May  he  deny  himself  and  take  up  his  cross, 
and  follow  Christ,  the  Captain  of  his  salvation,  and  be 
faithful  unto  the  death,  and  then  receive  the  crown  of 
life,  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Saviour.     Amen. 

III. 

address. 
rpHE  principal  parts  of  the  doctrine  of  Holy  Bap- 
-^     tism  are  these  three :  first,  That  we  with  our 


154    Other  Forms  of  Administering 

children  are  conceived  and  born  in  sin,  and  therefore 
are  children  of  wrath ;  insomuch  that  we  can  not  enter 
into  the  Kingdom  of  God,  except  we  are  horn  again  : 
which  is  signified  by  the  application  of  water  in  the 
Name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the  Holy 
Ghost.  Secondly,  Holy  Baptism  witnesseth  and  seal- 
eth  unto  us  the  washing  away  of  our  sins  through 
Jesus  Christ.  For  when  we  are  baptized  in  the  Name 
of  the  Father :  God  the  Father  sealeth  unto  us  that 
He  doth  make  an  eternal  Covenant  of  Grace  with  us, 
and  adopts  us  for  His  children  and  heirs.  And  when 
we  are  baptized  in  the  Name  of  the  Son :  God  the 
Son  sealeth  unto  us  that  He  doth  wash  us  in  His 
blood  from  all  our  sins ;  so  that  we  are  accounted 
righteous  before  God.  And,  in  like  manner,  when  we 
are  baptized  in  the  Name  of  the  Holy  Ghost :  God 
the  Holy  Ghost  assures  us  that  He  will  dwell  in  us, 
and  apply  that  which  we  have  in  Christ,  namely,  the 
washing  away  of  our  sins,  and  the  daily  renewing  of 
our  lives,  till  we  shall  finally  be  presented  without 
spot  or  wrinkle  among  the  Elect  in  life  eternal. 
Thirdly,  Whereas  in  all  covenants  there  are  contained 
two  parts,  therefore  are  we  through  Baptism  obliged 
unto  new  obedience :  namely,  that  we  cleave  to  this 


The  Sacrament  of  Baptism.      155 

one  God,  Father,  Son,  and  Holy  Ghost ;  that  we  for- 
sake the  world,  crucify  our  old  nature,  and  walk  in  a 
new  and  holy  life. 

And  if  we  sometimes  through  weakness  fall  into 
sin,  we  must  not  therefore  despair  of  God's  mercy,  nor 
continue  in  sin,  since  Baptism  is  a  seal  and  undoubted 
testimony,  that  we  have  an  eternal  Covenant  of  Grace 
with  God. 

And  although  our  young  children  do  not  understand 
these  things,  they  are  not  therefore  to  be  excluded 
from  Baptism.  For  as  they  are  without  their  knowl- 
edge partakers  of  the  condemnation  in  Adam,  so  are 
they  again  received  unto  grace  in  Christ.  For  God 
said  unto  Abraham,  the  father  of  all  the  faithful,  and 
therefore  unto  us  and  our  children,  I  will  establish 
My  Covenant  between  Me  and  thee,  and  thy  seed  after 
thee  in  their  generations,  for  an  everlasting  covenant ; 
to  be  a  God  unto  thee,  and  to  thy  seed  after  thee. 
This  is  confirmed  by  the  Apostle  Peter,  saying.  For 
the  promise  is  unto  you,  and  to  your  children.  There- 
fore God  formerly  commanded  them  to  be  circumcised, 
which  was  a  seal  of  the  covenant,  and  of  the  righteous- 
ness of  faith.  And  therefore  Christ  also  embraced 
them,  laid  His  hands  upon  them,  and  blessed  them, 


156    Other  Forms  of  Administering 

Forasmuch  then  as  Baptism  is  come  in  the  place  of 
Circumcision,  infants  are  to  be  baptized,  as  heirs  of  the 
Kingdom  of  God,  and  of  His  Covenant.  And  parents 
are  in  duty  bound,  further  to  instruct  their  children 
herein,  when  they  shall  have  arrived  at  years  of  dis- 
cretion. That  therefore  this  holy  Ordinance  of  God 
may  be  administered  to  His  glory,  to  our  comfort,  and 
to  the  edification  of  His  Church  :  let  us  call  upon  His 
Holy  Name. 

prayer. 
f\  ALMIGHTY  and  Eternal  God,  we  beseech  Thee 
^^  that  Thou  wilt  be  pleased  of  Thine  infinite 
mercy  graciously  to  look  upon  these  children ;  and  in- 
corporate them  by  Thy  Holy  Spirit  into  Thy  Son 
Jesus  Christ :  that  they  may  be  buried  with  Him  unto 
His  death,  and  be  raised  with  Him  in  newness  of  life ; 
that  they  may  daily  follow  Him,  joyfully  bearing  their 
cross,  and  cleave  unto  Him  in  true  faith,  firm  hope, 
and  ardent  love ;  that  they  may  with  a  comfortable 
sense  of  Thy  favour  leave  this  life,  which  is  nothing 
but  a  continual  death;  and  at  the  last  day  appear 
without  terror  before  the  judgment-seat  of  Christ  Thy 
Son  :  Through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord,  Who  with  Thee 


The  Sacrament  of   Baptism.       157 


and  the  Holy  Ghost,  one  only  God,  lives  and  reigns 
for  ever.     Amen. 


To  the  Parents,  and  those  who  come  with  them  to  Baptism. 

"QELOVED  in  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  you  have 
-*-^  heard  that  Baptism  is  an  Ordinance  of  God,  to 
seal  unto  us  and  to  our  seed  His  covenant.  Therefore 
it  must  be  used  for  that  end,  and  not  out  of  custom  or 
superstition.  That  it  may  then  be  manifest  that  you 
are  thus  minded,  you  are  to  answer  sincerely  to  these 
questions : 

First,  Do  you  acknowledge  that,  although  our  chil- 
dren are  conceived  and  born  in  sin,  and  therefore  un- 
der condemnation :  yet  they  are  sanctified*  in  Christ, 
and  therefore,  as  members  of  His  Church,  ought  to  be 
baptized? 

Secondly,  Do  you  acknowledge  the  doctrine  which 
is  contained  in  the  Old  and  New  Testaments,  and  in 
the  articles  of  the  Christian  faith,  and  which  is  taught 
here  in  this  Christian  Church,  to  be  the  true  and  com- 
plete doctrine  of  salvation  ? 

*  My  children,  Ezek.  xvi.  21.    They  are  holy,  1  Cor.  vli.  14,  jA 


158    Other  Forms  of  Administering 

•  Thirdly,  Do  you  promise  and  intend  to  see  these 
children,  when  come  to  years  of  discretion,  instructed 
and  brought  up  in  the  aforesaid  doctrine,  to  the  utmost 
of  your  power  ?  . 

Answer.     Yes. 


I 


Then  the  Minister  of  God's  Word,  in  baptizing,  shall  say : 

I  baptize  thee  in  the  Name  of  the  Father,  and 
•5     of  the  Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost.     Amen. 

THANKSGIVING. 


A  LMIGHTY  God  and  Mefciful  Father,  we  thank 
-^  and  praise  Thee  that  Thou  hast  promised  to  for- 
give us  and  our  children  all  our  sins,  through  the 
blood  of  Thy  beloved  Son  Jesus  Christ ;  and  to  re- 
ceive us  through  the  Holy  Ghost  as  members  of  Thy 
Son,  and  to  adopt  us  as  Thy  children.  We  bless  and 
praise  Thee  that  Thou  hast  sealed  and  confirmed  these 
promises  unto  us  by  Holy  Baptism.  We  beseech 
Thee,  through  the  same  Son  of  Thy  love,  tjiat  Thou 
wilt  be  pleased  always  to  govern  these  baptized  chil- 
dren by  Thy  Holy  Spirit ;  that  they  may  be  piously 
brought  up,  in  the  nurture  and  admonition   of  the 


The  Sacrament  of  Baptism.      159 

Lord ;  that  they  then  may  acknowledge  Thy  fatherly 
goodness  and  mercy,  which  Thou  hast  shown  to  them 
and  to  us ;  and  live  in  all  righteousness  under  our  only 
Teacher,  King,  and  High  Priest,  Jesus  Christ;  and 
manfully  fight  and  overcome  sin,  the  devil,  and  his 
whole  dominion :  to  the  end  that  they  may  eternally 
praise  and  magnify  Thee,  and  Thy  Son  Jesus  Christ, 
together  with  the  Holy  Ghost,  the  one  only  true  God. 
Amen. 


THE   FORM 


OF  ADMINISTEEINa 


THE    SACRAMENT  OF  BAPTISM 
TO  ADTJLT  PERSONS. 


After  repeating  the  first  two  paragraphs  of  the  preceding  office,  the  Minis- 
ter proceeds  thus : 

TTOWEVER  children  of  Christian  parents,  although 
-*-^  they  understand  not  this  mystery,  must  be  bap- 
tized, by  virtue  of  the  Covenant:  yet  it  is  not  lawful 
to  baptize  those  who  are  come  to  years  of  discretion, 
except  they  first  be  sensible  of  their  sins,  and  make 
confession  both  of  their  repentance  and  of  their  faith  in 
Christ.  For  this  cause  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ  com- 
manded His  disciples  to  teach  all  nations,  and  then  to 
baptize  them,  in  the  Name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the 
Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost ;  adding  this  promise,  He 
that  believeth  and  is  baptized  shall  be  saved.  Accord- 
ingly, the  Apostles  baptized  none  who  were  of  years 
of  discretion,  but  such  as  made  confession  of  their  faith 


Baptism  of  Adult  Persons.      161 

and  repentance.  Therefore  it  is  not  lawful  now  to 
baptize  any  adult  persons,  but  those  who  have  been 
taught  the  mysteries  of  Holy  Baptism,  and  are  able 
to  give  an  account  of  their  faith  by  the  confession  of 
the  mouth. 

Since  then,  you,  N.,  are  desirous  of  this  holy  sacra- 
ment, as  a  seal  of  your  engrafting  into  the  Church  of 
God  ;  that  it  may  appear  that  you  do  not  only  receive 
the  Christian  Religion,  of  which  you  now  make  con- 
fession, but  do,  through  the  grace  of  God,  intend  and 
purpose  to  lead  a  life  according  to  the  same  ;  you  are 
sincerely  to  give  answer  before  God  and  His  Church  : 

Dost  thou  believe  in  the  one  only  true  God,  distinct 
in  three  Persons,  Father,  Son,  and  Holy  Ghost ;  Who 
hath  made  heaven  and  earth,  and  all  that  in  them  is, 
of  nothing,  and  still  maintains  and  governs  them,  inso- 
much that  nothing  comes  to  pass,  either  in  heaven  or 
on  earth,  without  His  divine  will  ? 

Answer.     Yes. 

Dost  thou  acknowledge  that  thou  art  conceived  and 
born  in  sin,  and  therefore  art  a  child  of  wrath,  by  na- 
ture wholly  incapable  of  doing  any  good,  and  prone  to 
all  evil ;  and  that  thou  hast  frequently,  both  in  thought, 


162  Baptismof 

word,   and  deed,  transgressed  the  commandments  of 
the  Lord;  and  art  thou  heartily  sorrj. for  these  sins  ? 

Answer.     Yes. 

Dost  thou  believe  that  Christ,  Who  is  the  true  and 
eternal  God,  and  very  Man,  is  given  thee  of  God  to 
be  thy  Saviour ;  and  that  thou  dost  receive  by  this 
faith  remission  of  sins  in  His  blood  ;  and  that  thou  art 
made  by  the  power  of  the  Holy  Ghost  a  member  of 
Jesus  Christ  and  of  His  Church  ? 

Answer.     Yes. 

^^•"TTost  thou  assent  to  all  the  articles  of  the  Christian 
Religion,  as  they  are  here  taught  in  this  Christian 
Church,  according  to  the  Word  of  God ;  and  purpose 
stedfastly  to  continue  in  the  same  to  the  end  of  thy 
life  ;  and  also  dost  thou  reject  all  heresies  and  schisms, 
repugnant  to  this  doctrine]^  and  promise  to  persevere 
in  the  communion  of  our  Christian  Church,  not  only 
in  the  hearing  of  the  Word,  but  also  in  the  use  of  the 
Lord's  Supper  ? 

Answer.     Yes. 


*'        Adult   Persons/  163 

Hast  thou  taken  a  firm  resolution  always  to  lead  a 
Christian  life  ;  to  forsake  the  world  and  its  evil  lusts, 
as  becometh  the  members  of  Christ  and  of  His 
Church ;  and  to  submit  thyself  to  all  Christian  ad- 
monitions ? 

Answer.     Yes. 

The  good  and  gracious  God  mercifully  grant  His 
grace  and  blessing  to  this  thy  purpose,  through  Jesus 
Christ.    Amen. 

Then  the  Minister  of  God's  Word,  in  baptizing,  shall  say : 

N.,  I  baptize  thee  in  the  Name  of  the  Father,  and 
of  the  Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost.     Amen. 


THE   FORM 

FOE 

THE    ADMISSION    OF    BAPTIZED    PERSONS 
TO  THE  TABLE  OF  THE  LOED. 


At  the  Service  preparatory  to  the  Lord's  Supper. 


"  Children  born  within  the  pale  of  the  visible  Church,  and  dedicated  to  God 
in  Baptism,  are  under  the  inspection  and  government  of  the  Church;  and  are 
to  be  taught  to  read  and  repeat  the  Catechism,  the  Apostles'  Creed,  and  the 
Lord's  Prayer.  They  are  to  be  taught  to  pray,  to  abhor  sin,  to  fear  God,  and 
to  obey  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ.  And  when  they  come  to  years  of  discretion, 
if  they  be  free  from  scandal,  appear  sober  and  steady,  and  to  have  sufficient 
knowledge  to  discern  the  Lord's  Body,  they  ought  to  be  informed  it  is  their 
duty  and  their  privilege  to  come  to  the  Lord's  Supper. 

"  The  years  of  discretion  in  young  Christians  can  not  be  precisely  fixed. 
This  must  be  left  to  the  prudence  of  the  Eldership.  The  officers  of  the  Church 
are  the  judges  of  the  qualifications  of  those  to  be  admitted  to  sealing  ordi- 
nances ;  and  of  the  time  when  it  is  proper  to  admit  young  Christians  to  them. 

"  Those  who  are  to  be  admitted  to  sealing  ordinances,  shall  be  examined  as 
to  their  knowledge  and  piely." 


INVOCATION. 

/^UR  help  is  in  the  Name  of  the  Lord,  who  made 


heaven  and  earth.     Amen. 


PREFACE. 


rpHUS  saith  the  Lord  that  made  thee,  and  formed 
-*-     thee  from  the  womb,  which  will  help  thee,  Fear 


Admission  of  Baptized  Persons.  165 

not,  0  Jacob,  my  servant,  and  thou  Jesurun,  whom 
I  have  chosen.  For  I  will  pour  water  on  him  that  is 
thirsty,  and  floods  upon  the  dry  ground :  I  will  pour 
my  Spirit  upon  thy  seed,  and  my  blessing  upon  thine 
offspring;  and  they  shall  spring  up  as  among  the 
grass,  as  willows  by  the  water-courses.  One  shall  say, 
I  am  the  Lord's;  and  another  shall  subscribe  with 
his  hand  unto  the  Lord,  and  surname  himself  by  the 
name  of  Israel. 

ADDRESS  TO   THE   CONGREGATION. 

"QRETHREN,  we  are  here  met  for  the  admission  of 
■^  these  young  persons,  who  have  been  examined  as 
to  their  knowledge  and  piety,  to  the  Table  of  the  Lord. 
They  will  publicly  ratify  in  your  hearing  the  engage- 
ments of  their  Baptism,  and  be  received  to  the  full  par- 
ticipation of  the  benefits  of  the  Covenant  of  Grace. 

This  occasion  is  one  of  solemn  interest  for  each  of 
them  :  and  such  also  let  it  be  for  each  of  you.  Let 
your  thoughts  revert  to  the  vows  that  you  have  taken, 
and  the  privileges  that  you  have  enjoyed,  in  the  com- 
munion and  fellowship  of  Christ  and  of  His  Body  the 
Church.  To  this  end  let  us  with  one  accord  seek  the 
blessing  of  the  Spirit  of  God. 


166    Admission  of   Baptized  Peksons 


PRAYER. 

A  LMIGHTY  and  most  Merciful  God !  We  give 
■^-^  Thee  hearty  thanks,  that  Thou  hast  called  us  to 
the  knowledge  of  Thyself,  in  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord ; 
and  hast  vouchsafed  to  make  us  partakers  of  the  great 
and  precious  promises  of  Thy  holy  Word.  We  praise 
Thee  for  the  certain  assurance,  that  these  promises  are 
unto  us,  and  to  our  children^  and  to  all  that  are  afar 
off,  even  as  many  as  Thy  grace  shall  call.  0  Merciful 
God,  we  have  believed  the  witness  of  Thy  Word.  We 
have  dedicated  these  children  from  their  infancy  to 
Thee.  We  have  sought  for  them  admission  to  Thy 
Church  by  Holy  Baptism.  We  have  taught  them  Thy 
saving  Truth ;  and  now  that  they  have  reached  years 
of  discretion,  we  come  with  them,  to  witness  their  will- 
ing renewal  of  the  sacred  vows  that  bind  them  to  Thy 
Covenant.  Lord,  we  beseech  Thee,  help  them  at  this 
solemn  hour.  Work  in  them  both  to  will  and  to  do  of 
Thy  good  pleasure.  Make  them  sincere  in  repentance, 
strong  in  faith,  stedfast  in  hope,  and  fervent  in  charity. 
Receive  them  into  the  communion  of  Thy  Son  Jesus 
Christ  our  Lord ;  and  enable  them  to  persevere  unto 
the  end,  by  the  grace  of  Thy  Holy  Spirit.     Amen. 


To  THE  Lord's  Table.  167 

.    Then  the  Minister,  addressing  the  Candidates,  says : 

"\rOU  that  desire  to  be  admitted  to  the  Table  of  the 
-*-  Lord,  are  you  so  fully  persuaded  of  the  truths 
of  the  Gospel  in  which  you  have  been  taught,  that 
you  are  ready  to  suflfer  all  things,  sooner  than  re- 
nounce the  profession  you  now  make  ? 

Answer.    Yes. 

Have  you  examined  your  own  hearts,  and  are  you 
determined  to  forsake  sin,  and  to  order  your  lives  in 
obedience  to  God's  law  ? 

Ans7ver.     Yes. 

Do  you  promise  that,  for  the  strengthening  of  your 
faith  and  piety,  you  will  give  yourselves  to  careful 
study  and  meditation  upon  the  Word  of  God,  and  to 
prayer ;  to  a  regular  attendance  upon  the  assemblies 
of  His  People;  and  to  all  other  means  that  Prov- 
idence shall  furnish,  for  the  advancement  of  your 
salvation  ? 

Answer.   Yes. 

Do  you  then  sincerely  and  with  your  whole  hearts 


168    Admission  of  Baptized  Persons 

confirm  and  ratify  the  vows  of  your  Baptism,  that 
bind  you  to  renounce  the  world  with  all  its  vanities, 
to  resist  your  evil  passions,  to  consecrate  yourselves 
to  God,  your  Father,  Saviour,  and  Sanctifier ;  and  to 
live  in  temperance,  righteousness,  and  holiness  all  your 
days  ? 

Answer.    Yes. 

Then  the  Minister  says : 

TN  view  of  these  promises,  I  admit  you  to  the  Table 
-■-  of  the  Supper  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  that 
you  may  enjoy  all  the  privileges  of  the  Covenant  of 
Grace. 

May  you  be  deeply  sensible  of  the  importance  and 
the  solemnity  of  the  engagement  that  you  have  now 
entered  upon,  and  retain  the  impression  of  it  through- 
out your  lives.  Remember  that  it  is  to  God,  your 
Maker,  your  Redeemer,  and  your  Judge,  that  these 
promises  have  been  made ;  and  that  upon  the  care  you 
take  to  fulfil  them,  will  depend  your  eternal  blessed- 
ness. Walk  worthily,  then,  of  your  high  vocation. 
Let  the  light  of  your  good  works  shine  before  men. 
Labour  to  perfect  holiness,  in  the  fear  of  the  Lord. 
Seek  daily  the  strength  of  God.     Nourish  your  souls 


To  THE  Lord's  Table.  169 


with  His  Word.  Be  watchful  unto  prayer.  Flee 
youthful  snares,  that  would  lead  you  away  from  Him. 
Thus  devoting  yourselves  to  God  from  youth,  you 
will  be  so  accustomed  to  His  service,  that  His  yoke 
will  seem  to  you  easy,  and  His  burden  light,  and 
your  joy  will  be  found  in  doing  His  blessed  will.  God 
on  His  part  will  bless  you;  He  will  give  you  His 
peace,  that  passeth  all  understanding.  The  eye  of  the 
Lord  will  be  upon  you,  and  His  ears  will  be  open  to 
your  prayers ;  the  blood  of  Jesus  Christ  will  cleanse 
you  from  all  sin.  Be  fearful  of  nothing;  because 
greater  is  He  that  is  in  you,  than  he  that  is  in  the 
world.  His  strength  will  be  made  perfect  in  your 
weakness ;  you  will  be  able  to  do  all  things  through 
Christ  who  strengtheneth  you.  In  the  hour  of  death, 
you  will  be  sustained  by  the  hope  of  a  joyful  resur- 
rection, and  having  here  below  your  fruit  unto  holi- 
ness, you  shall  have  the  end  everlasting  life. 

Then  the  Minister,  addressing  the  whole  congregation,  says : 

A  ND  you.  Brethren,  who  now  witness  the  entrance 
-^-^  of  these  baptized  persons  upon  a  connection  yet 
more  close  and  intimate  with  yourselves,  let  your  af- 
fection toward  them,  and  your  earnest  solicitude  for 


170    Admission  of  Baptized  Persons 

their  welfare,  be  henceforth  redoubled.  And  let  us  all 
with  one  accord,  as  members  of  one  Body,  unite  in 
fervent  prayer,  that  God  may  pour  down  His  grace 
upon  us,  and  guide  by  His  Holy  Spirit  into  His  per- 
fect way. 

PRAYER. 

The  Candidates  kneeling. 

r\  LORD  our  God,  who  hast  chosen  to  Thyself  a 
^-^  Church  on  earth,  and  who  hast  promised  to 
preserve  it  unto  the  end  of  the  world,  and  finally  raise 
it  unto  Thy  glory:  Look  down  in  Thy  goodness  upon 
these  baptized  persons  now  prostrate  before  Thee,  who 
have  been  solemnly  admitted  to  the  fiill  communion 
and  fellowship  of  Thy  Church.  Thou  hadst  already 
called  them,  by  the  promises  of  Thy  Covenant,  which 
are  made  unto  us  and  unto  our  children ;  and  granted 
them  the  seal  of  this  privilege  of  Christian  birth,  in 
the  ordinance  of  Baptism.  But  since  the  weakness 
of  their  infancy  prevented  the  personal  and  voluntary 
dedication  of  themselves,  they  come  now  to  confirm 
the  vows  of  obedience  that  were  taken  for  them,  to 
consecrate  themselves  entirely  to  Thy  service,  and  to 
beseech  Thee  that  Thou  wilt  graciously  regard  them 


To  THE  Lokd's  Table.  171 

as  Thy  children.  They  have  been  taught,  0  God,  to 
know  Thee,  their  Father,  Saviour,  and  Sanctifier. 
They  are  persuaded  that  there  is  salvation  in  none 
other,  and  they  desire  to  have  part  in  the  benefits 
of  the  sacrifice  of  Christ,  and  His  efficacious  interces- 
sion. Accept,  0  Lord,  these  purposes  of  their  hearts, 
and  receive  them  into  the  communion  of  Thy  Son. 
May  they  love  Thy  truth,  and  ever  seek  to  know  it 
more  thoroughly,  and  to  profess  it  more  consistently, 
unto  the  end  of  their  lives.  May  they  withstand  all 
evil,  renounce  the  world,  its  vanities  and  delusions, 
and  live  as  the  heirs  and  citizens  of  heaven.  May 
the.  Sacrament  of  which  they  shall  partake  be  accom- 
panied with  a  fresh  outpouring  of  Thy  grace  upon 
them.  Take  possession  of  their  hearts  by  Thy  Holy 
Spirit;  and  at  last  receive  them  with  us  into  Thy 
heavenly  habitations,  through  our  Great  Redeemer  and 
Advocate,  Jesus  Christ  Thy  Son.  Amen. 
Our  Father,  etc. 

BENEDICTION. 

rpHE  blessing  of  God  Almighty,  the  Father,  the 
-■-  Son,  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  be  amongst  you,  and 
remain  with  you  always.     Amen. 


ORDER   OF   SERVICE 


DATS   OP   PASTING   AND  THANKSGIVING. 


THE 


ORDER   OF   SERVICE 


DAY  OP  HUMILIATION,  FASTING,  AND  PRAYER. 


"  Public  notice  is  to  be  given  a  convenient  time  before  the  day  of  Fasting  or 
Thanksgiving  comes,  that  persons  may  so  order  their  temporal  affairs,  that  they 
may  properly  attend  to  the  duties  thereof. 

"There  shall  be  public  worship  upon  all  such  days:  and  let  the  prayers, 
psalms,  portions  of  Scripture  to  be  read,  and  sermons,  be  all  in  a  special  man- 
ner adapted  to  the  occasion. 

"  On  Fast-days  let  the  Minister  point  out  the  authority  and  providences  call- 
ing to  the  observation  thereof;  and  let  him  spend  a  more  than  usual  portion 
of  time  in  solemn  prayer,  particular  confession  of  sin,  especially  of  the  sins  of 
the  day  and  place,  with  their  aggravations,  which  have  brought  down  the 
judgments  of  heaven.  And  let  the  whole  day  be  spent  in  deep  humiliation 
and  mourning  before  God." 


PREFACE. 

TT7HEREWITH  shall  I  come  before  the  Lord,  and 
*  *  bow  myself  before  the  high  God  ?  Shall  I 
come  before  Him  with  burnt-offerings,  with  calves  of 
a  year  old  ?  Will  the  Lord  be  pleased  with  thousands 
of  rams,  or  with  ten  thousands  of  rivers  of  oil  ?  Shall 
I  give  my  first-born  for  my  transgression,  the  fruit  of 


176  Order  of   Service 

my  body  for  the  sin  of  my  soul  ?  He  hath  showed 
thee,  0  man,  what  is  good ;  and  what  doth  the  Lord 
require  of  thee,  but  to  do  justly,  and  to  love  mercy, 
and  to  walk  humbly  with  thy  God  ? 

OPENING   PRAYER. 

f\  LORD,  Thy  mercy  is  without  measure,  and  the 
^^  truth  of  Thy  promise  abideth  for  ever.  Un- 
worthy are  we  that  Thou  shouldst  look  upon  us  ;  but 
Thou  hast  promised  to  show  Thy  compassion  toward 
the  most  grievous  offenders,  whensoever  they  repent  ; 
and  by  the  mouth  of  Thy  dear  Son  our  Lord  Jesus 
Christ,  to  give  Thy  Holy  Spirit  unto  such  as  humbly 
call  upon  Thee.  In  boldness  of  this  promise,  we  most 
fervently  beseech  Thee,  0  Father  of  Mercies,  that  it 
may  please  Thee  to  work  in  our  stubborn  hearts  an 
unfeigned  sorrow  for  our  offences,  a  feeling  of  Thy 
grace  and  mercy,  and  an  earnest  desire  for  that  right- 
eousness in  which  we  are  bound  continually  to  walk. 
But  because  neither  we  nor  our  prayers  can  stand  be- 
fore Thee,  we  fly  to  the  obedience  and  perfect  right- 
eousness of  Jesus  Christ  our  only  Mediator  :  in  whom, 
and  by  whom,  we  ask  of  Thee  not  only  the  remission 
of  our  sins,  and  the  help  of  Thy  Spirit,  but  all  things 


-    For  A  Public  Fast.  177 

also  that  Thy  wisdom  knoweth  to  be  expedient  for  us,       ,^ 
and  for  Thy  Church  Universal.     Amen. 


To  be  said  by  the  Minister  and  People. 

/^UR  Father  which  art  in  Heaven,  Hallowed  be  Thy 
^^  Name.  Thy  kingdom  come.  Thy  will  be  done 
in  earth,  as  it  is  in  heaven.  Give  us  this  day  our 
daily  bread.  And  forgive  us  our  debts,  as  we  forgive 
our  debtors.  And  lead  us  not  into  temptation,  but  de- 
liver us  from  evil :  For  Thine  is  the  kingdom,  and  the 
power,  and  the  glory,  for  ever.     Amen. 

Here  may  be  sung  a  penitential  Psalm. 

Then  follows  the  reading  of  Scripture,  out  of  the  Old  and  New  Testaments. 

The  following  are  appropriate  selections  : 

Isaiah  1. 10-27.  St.  Matthew  iii.  1-12. 

Isaiah  Iviii.  Hebrews  iii. 

Jeremiah  vii.  1-20.  St.  Matthew  xxi.  28^6. 

Psalm  li.  St.  Luke  xiii.  23-35. 

Ezekiel  xviii.  20-82.  St.  Luke  xviii.  1-14. 

Daniel  ix.  1-19.  St.  Luke  xv.  11-32. 

Next  the 

GENERAL  PRAYER. 

f\  ALMIGHTY,  Most  Just,  and  Merciful  God  !  we 

acknowledge  ourselves  unworthy  to  lift  up  our 

8* 


178  Order  of  Service 

eyes  unto  heaven,  as  we  present  ourselves  before  Thee. 
For  our  consciences  accuse  us,  and  our  sins  reprove 
us  ;  and  we  know  that  Thou,  who  art  a  righteous  Judge, 
must  needs  punish  them  that  transgress  Thy  law.  0 
Lord  !  when  we  look  back  and  examine  our  whole  life, 
we  find  nothing  in  ourselves  that  deserveth  any  other 
reward  than  eternal  condemnation.  But  since,  of 
Thine  unspeakable  mercy,  Thou  hast  commanded  us  in 
all  our  necessities  to  call  upon  Thee ;  and  hast  also 
promised  that  Thou  wilt  hear  our  prayers,  not  for  any 
merit  of  our  own,  for  we  have  none,  but  for  the  merits 
of  Thy  Son,  whom  Thou  hast  ordained  to  be  our  only 
Mediator  and  Intercessor  :  Therefore  we  lay  aside  all 
confidence  in  man,  and  flee  to  the  throne  of  Thy 
mercy,  by  the  intercession  of  Thy  only  Son  our  Saviour, 
Jesus  Christ. 

O  Lord  !  we  lament  and  bewail  our  past  unthank- 
fulness  towards  Thee.  We  remember  that  besides  those 
benefits  of  Thine  which  we  enjoy  in  common  with  all 
men  as  Thy  creatures.  Thou  hast  bestowed  upon  us 
many  special  blessings,  of  which  we  are  not  able  in 
heart  to  conceive  the  value,  much  less  in  words  worthily 
to  express  it.  Thou  hast  called  us  to  the  knowledge 
of  Thy  Gospel.     Thou  hast  released  us  from  the  hard 


For  A  Public  Fast.  179 

servitude  of  Satan.  Thou  hast  delivered  us  from  idol- 
atry, and  hast  brought  us  into  the  clear  and  comfort- 
able light  of  Thy  blessed  Word.  But  we,  unmindful 
of  these  Thy  benefits,  have  neglected  Thy  command- 
ments, have  abused  the  knowledge  of  Thy  Gospel,  have 
followed  our  carnal  liberty,  have  served  our  own  lusts, 
and  through  our  sinful  lives  have  failed  sxiitably  to 
serve  and  honour  Thee. 

And  now,  0  Lord  !  we  do  most  humbly  confess  that 
we  have  sinned,  and  have  most  grievously  displeased 
Thee.  And  if  Thou,  Lord !  provoked  with  our  dis- 
obedience, shouldst  now  deal  with  us  as  we  have  de- 
served, there  remaineth  nothing  to  be  looked  for,  but 
continual  plagues  in  this  world,  and  hereafter  eternal 
death  and  condemnation,  both  of  body  and  of  soul. 
For  if  we  should  excuse  ourselves,  our  own  consciences 
would  accuse  us  before  Thee,  and  our  own  disobedience 
and  wickedness  would  bear  witness  against  us.  Yea, 
although  Thou  shouldst  punish  us  more  grievously 
still ;  though  Thou  shouldst  pour  upon  us  all  those 
testimonies  of  Thy  just  wrath,  which  in  time  past  Thou 
pouredst  on  Thy  chosen  people,  Israel :  yet  could  we 
not  deny  that  we  had  justly  deserved  it. 

But,  O  merciful  Lord  !  Thou  art  our  God,  and  wo 


180  Order  OF   Sebv ICE 

are  Thine  inheritance ;  Thoa  art  our  Creator,  and  we 
the  work  of  Thy  hands ;  Thou  art  our  Shepherd,  we 
Thy  flock ;  Thou  art  our  Redeemer,  and  we  the  people 
whom  Thou  hast  redeemed  ;  Thou  art  our  Father,  we 
are  Thy  children.  Lord  !  be  not  wroth  against  us ; 
punish  us  not  in  Thy  sore  displeasure. 

Remember,  0  Lord !  that  Thy  Name  hath  been 
named  upon  us  ;  that  we  bear  Thy  seal,  and  the  tokens 
of  Thy  service.  Perfect  the  work  Thou  hast  begun  in 
us ;  that  all  the  world  may  know  Thou  art  our  God 
and  merciful  Dehverer.  Thou  knowest  that  the  dead 
who  are  in  their  graves  can  not  praise  Thee  ;  but  the 
sorrowful  spirit,  the  contrite  heart,  the  conscience 
broken  with  a  sense  of  sin,  and  panting  for  Thy  grace, 
shall  give  Thee  praise  and  glory.  Thy  people  Israel 
ofttimes  offended  Thee,  and  Thou  didst  justly  afflict 
them  ;  but  as  oft  as  they  returned  to  Thee,  Thou  didst 
receive  them  in  mercy ;  and  though  their  sins  were 
never  so  great,  yet  didst  Thou  turn  away  Thy  wrath, 
and  the  punishment  prepared  for  them  :  and  that  for 
Thy  Covenant's  sake,  which  Thou  madest  with  Thy 
servants  Abraham,  Isaac,  and  Jacob.  Thou  hast  made 
a  better  Covenant  with  us,  0  heavenly  Father  !  a 
Covenant  on  which  we  may  lean  as  we  appear  before 


For  A  Public  Fast.  181 

Thee  :  through  the  mediation  of  Thy  dear  Son  Jesus 
Christ  our  Saviour,  with  whose  most  precious  blood  it 
pleased  Thee  that  this  Covenant  should  be  written, 
sealed,  and  confirmed. 

Wherefore,  0  heavenly  Father !  we  now,  casting 
away  all  confidence  in  ourselves  or  any  other  creature, 
do  flee  to  this  most  holy  Covenant  and  testament ; 
wherein  our  Lord  and  Saviour  Jesus  Christ,  once 
offering  Himself  a  sacrifice  for  us  on  the  Cross,  hath 
reconciled  us  to  Thee  for  ever.  Look,  therefore,  0 
merciful  God !  not  upon  the  sins  that  we  continually 
commit,  but  upon  our  Mediator  and  Peacemaker, 
Jesus  Christ :  that  by  His  intercession  Thy  wrath  may 
be  pacified,  and  we  again  by  Thy  fatherly  countenance 
relieved  and  comforted.  Receive  us  also  into  Thy 
heavenly  defence,  and  govern  us  by  Thy  Holy  Spirit. 
Frame  in  us  newness  of  life,  wherein  to  laud  and 
magnify  Thy  blessed  Name  for  ever,  and  to  live  every 
one  of  us  according  to  the  several  states  of  life  where- 
unto  Thou  hast  ordained  us. 

And,  0  heavenly  Father  !  although  by  reason  of 
our  past  sins,  we  are  unworthy  to  crave  any  thing  of 
Thee :  yet,  because  Thou  hast  commanded  us  to  pray 
for  all  men,  we  most  humbly  beseech  Thee,  save  and 


182  Order  OF   Service 

defend  Thj  holy  Church.  Be  merciful  to  all  com- 
monwealths, countries,  princes,  and  magistrates  ;  and 
especially  to  this  our  land,  and  to  its  rulers  and  gov- 
ernors. Increase  the  number  of  godly  ministers. 
Endue  them  with  Thy  grace,  to  be  found  faithful  and 
prudent  in  their  office.  "We  commend  also  to  Thy 
fatherly  mercy  all  that  be  in  poverty,  exile,  im- 
prisonment, sickness,  or  any  kind  of  adversity;  and 
chiefly  those  whom  Thy  hand  hath  touched  with 
any  dangerous  sickness:  which  we  beseech  Thee,  0 
Lord !  of  Thy  mercy,  when  Thy  blessed  will  is,  to 
remove.  And  in  the  meantime  grant  us  the  grace 
of  true  repentance,  steadfast  faith,  and  constant  pa- 
tience :  that  whether  we  live  or  die,  we  may  always 
continue  Thine,  and  ever  bless  Thy  holy  Name, 
and  be  brought  to  the  fruition  of  Thy  Godhead. 
Grant  these,  and  all  our  humble  petitions,  0  merciful 
Father  I  for  the  sake  of  Thy  dear  Son  Jesus  Christ 
our  Lord.    Amen. 

After  thia  Prayer  a  Hymn  shall  be  sung  before  the 
SERMON. 


After  which  a  Closing  Prayer,  as  on  pp.  71,  88-85 ;  followed  by  a  Hymn, 
and  the 


For  a  Public  Fast.  183 

benediction. 

THE  grace  of  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  and  the  love 
of  God,  and  the  communion  of  the  Holy  Ghost, 
be  with  you  all.     Amen. 


THE 


ORDER   OF   SERVICE 


DAY  OF  PUBLIC  THANKSGIVING 


"  On  days  of  Thanksgiving,  the  Minister  is  to  give  infoi-mation  respecting  the 
authority  and  providences  which  call  to  the  observance  of  them  ;  and  to  spend 
a  more  than  usual  part  of  the  time  in  the  giving  up  of  thanks,  agreeably  to  the 
occasion,  and  in  singing  psalms  or  hymns  of  praise. 

"  It  is  the  duty  of  the  people  on  these  days  to  rejoice  with  holy  gladness  of 
heart;  but  let  trembling  be  so  joined  with  our  mirth,  that  no  excess  or  un- 
becoming levity  be  indulged." 

PREFACE. 

r\  COME,  let  us  sing  unto  the  Lord :  let  us  make 
^^  a  joyful  noise  to  the  rock  of  our  salvation.  Let 
us  come  before  His  presence  with  thanksgiving,  and 
make  a  joyful  noise  unto  Him  with  psalms. 

,  0  come,  let  us  worship  and  bow  down :  let  us  kneel 
before  the  Lord  our  Maker.  For  He  is  our  God ;  and 
we  are  the  people  of  His  pasture,  and  the  sheep  of 
His  hand. 


Public   Thanksgiving.  185 

invocation. 
A  LMIGHTY  God  !  who  hast  promised  to  be  pre- 
•^-^  sent  with  Thy  people,  and  to  grant  their  re- 
quests in  the  Name  of  Thy  well-beloved  Son :  Look 
down,  we  beseech  Thee,  upon  us,  who  have  assembled 
at  this  time  to  offer  unto  Thee  our  thanksgiving  and 
praise ;  and  for  the  sake  of  Him  who  is  our  only 
Saviour  and  Mediator  with  Thee,  grant  us  the  help 
of  Thy  Holy  Spirit :  that  our  thoughts  being  lifted 
up,  and  our  desires  drawn  forth  unto  Thee,  we  may 
render  Thee  an  acceptable  service,  through  Jesus 
Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 


To  be  said  by  the  Minister  and  People. 

r^UR  Father  which  art  in  heaven,  Hallowed  be  Thy 
^  Name.  Thy  kingdom  come.  Thy  will  be  done 
in  earth,  as  it  is  in  heaven.  Give  us  this  day  our 
daily  bread.  And  forgive  us  our  debts,  as  we  forgive 
our  debtors.  And  lead  us  not  into  temptation,  but 
deliver  us  from  evil :  For  Thine  is  the  kingdom,  and 
the  power,  and  the  glory,  for  ever.     Amen. 

Then  follows  the  singing  of  a  Psalm  or  Hymn  of  Thanksgiving. 


186  Order  of   Service 

Next  the  reading  of  Scripture  out  of  the  Old  and  New  Testaments. 
The  following  are  appropriate  selections ; 

t)eut.  viii.  Bom.  xii. 

Psalm  civ.  Philip,  iv.  4r-20. 

Psalm  cvii.  1  Thess.  v. 

Next  the 

GENERAL    THANKSGIVING. 

GOD,  infinite  in  wisdom,  power,  and  goodness ! 


0 


We  acknowledge  Thee  the  Creator  of  all  things 
in  the  heavens  above,  in  the  earth  beneath,  and  in 
the  paths  of  the  sea.  We  adore  Thee  for  the  great- 
ness and  beauty  of  all  Thy  works.  We  adore  Thy 
loving-kindness,  that  Thou  hast  made  them  subservient 
to  the  wants  and  happiness  of  Thy  children.  What 
is  man  that  Thou  art  mindful  of  him,  and  the  son  of 
man  that  Thou  visitest  him  ?  Thou  hast  given  him 
dominion  over  the  fish  of  the  sea,  and  over  the  fowls 
of  the  air,  and  over  every  living  thing  that  moveth 
upon  the  earth.  Thou  hast  given  to  him  for  meat 
every  moving  thing  that  liveth,  and  every  herb  yield- 
ing seed,  and  every  fruit-tree  yielding  fruit  after  its 
kind.  Thou  hast  crowned  us  with  mercy  and  loving- 
kindness. 

We  praise  Thee  for  Thy  gracious  promise  of  old, 


For  Public  Thanksgiving.     187 

that  "while  the  earth  remaineth,  seed-time  and  harvest, 
and  cold  and  heat,  and  summer  and  winter,  and  day 
and  night,  shall  not  cease.  Thou  visitest  the  earth, 
and  blessest  it.  Thou  sendest  the  springs  into  the 
valleys  which  run  among  the  hills.  Thou  causest  the 
grass  to  grow  for  all  cattle,  and  herb  for  the  service 
of  man,  that  he  may  bring  forth  fruit  out  of  the  earth. 
Thou  makest  the  furrows  of  the  field  soft  with  show- 
ers :  Thou  blessest  the  springing  thereof  The  pas- 
tures are  clothed  with  flocks :  the  valleys  also  are 
covered  over  with  corn :  they  shout  for  joy.  Thou 
crownest  the  year  with  Thy  goodness :  Thy  clouds 
drop  fatness  :  they  drop  upon  the  pastures  of  the  wil- 
derness, and  the  little  hills  rejoice  on  every  side.  0 
Lord !  how  manifold  are  Thy  works !  in  wisdom  hast 
Thou  made  them  all. 

We  praise  Thee,  0  Lord  !  not  only  in  the  riches  of 
Thy  bounty  and  compassion,  but  also  in  Thy  righteous 
judgments.  Thou  openest  Thy  hand,  and  we  are 
filled  with  good :  Thou  hidest  Thy  face,  and  we  are 
troubled.  But  we  know  that  in  Thy  wrath  Thou 
rememberest  mercy ;  and  we  acknowledge  Thy  long- 
suffering  and  Thy  loving-kindness.  Give  us  grace  to 
believe,  that  whom  the  Lord  loveth  He  chastenethj 


188  Order  of  Service 

and  ever  enable  us  to  offer  unto  Thee,  in  spirit  and  in 
truth,  the  prayer  of  Thy  holy  prophet :  Although  the 
fig-tree  shall  not  blossom,  neither  shall  fruit  be  in  the 
vines ;  the  labour  of  the  olive  shall  fail,  and  the  fields 
shall  yield  no  meat ;  the  flock  shall  be  cut  off  from 
the  fold,  and  there  shall  be  no  herd  in  the  stalls  :  yet 
we  will  rejoice  in  the  Lord ;  we  will  joy  in  the  God 
of  our  salvation.  ^ 

For  ourselves  and  our  country,  0  Gracious  God! 
we  thank  Thee :  that  notwithstanding  our  manifold 
transgressions  of  Thy  holy  laws,  Thou  hast  continued 
unto  us  Thy  marvellous  kindness:  that  Thou  hast 
given  us  rain  from  heaven,  and  fruitful  seasons,  filling 
our  hearts  with  food  and  gladness.  These  have  been 
witnesses  of  Thy  great  goodness,  for  they  certify  of 
Thee  that  Thou  art  the  living  God.  Teach  us  to  be- 
lieve with  a  strong  faith  that  Thou  art  Lord  of  the 
seasons  :  that  Thou  biddest  the  earth  to  bring  forth, 
and  it  obeyeth  Thee.  Accept  our  thanksgivings  for 
all  the  blessings  of  the  year  now  drawing  to  a  close  : 
fill  our  hearts  with  humility  and  love,  with  gratitude 
and  trust :  continue  Thy  loving-kindness  unto  us,  and 
help  us  to  show  forth  the  fruits  of  grace,  in  a  sincere 
obedience  to  His  will,  through  whom  all  blessings  are 


For  Public   Thanksgiving.      189 

vouchsafed,    Thy    Son    our    Saviour,    Jesus   Christ. 
Amen. 

< 

After  this  Prayer  a  Hymn  shall  be  sung  before  the 


At  the  close  of  which  may  be  used  one  of  the  forms  of  a  General  Prayer,  as  on 
page  81-88. 


Then  a  Hymn,  and  the 


BENEDICTION. 


rpHE  grace  of  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  and  the  love 
-*-  of  God,  and  the  communion  of  the  Holy  Ghost, 
be  with  you  all.     Amen. 


THE     OFFICE 


CONFIRMATION     OP    MARRIAGE 


"  Marriage  must  always  be  performed  before  a  competent  number  of  wit- 
nesses ;  and  at  any  time,  except  on  a  day  of  public  humiliation.  And  we  ad- 
vise that  it  be  not  on  the  Lord's  day.  And  the  Minister  is  to  give  a  certificate 
of  the  marriage  when  required. 

"  When  the  parties  present  themselves  for  marriage,  the  Minister  is  to  ask 
if  there  is  any  person  present  who  knows  any  lawful  reason  why  these  persons 
may  not  be  joined  together  in  the  marriage  relation,  that  they  will  now  make 
it  known. 

"No  objections  being  made,  he  shall  then  proceed  to  give  them  some  in- 
structions from  the  Scriptures,  respecting  the  institution  and  duties  of  this 
office." 


ri  OD  be  merciful  unto  us,  and  bless  us,  and  cause 
^  His  face  to  shine  upon  us,  through  Jesus  Christ 
our  Lord.     Amen. 

"TN  the  Name  of  Almighty  Grod,  I  demand  of  each 
-■-  of  you  here  present,  that  if  ye  know  any  good 
reason  why  these  persons  M.,  and  N.,  should  not  be 
joined  in  Marriage,  ye  do  now  declare  the  same,  as 
ye  would  answer  before  the  Searcher  of  Hearts. 


192  Confirmation  of 

/^OD  created  man  in  His  own  image,  and  said,  it 
^  is  not  good  that  man  should  be  alone :  I  will 
make  a  help  meet  for  him.  He  brought  unto  the 
man  the  woman  whom  He  had  made.  And  Adam 
said,  This  is  now  bone  of  my  bones,  and  flesh  of  my 
flesh.  Therefore  shall  a  man  leave  father  and  mother, 
and  cleave  unto  his  wife  :  and  they  twain  shall  be  one 


Marriage,  thus  ordained  of  God  in  Eden,  was  con- 
firmed at  the  wedding  in  Cana  of  Galilee,  by  the 
gracious  presence  and  miraculous  blessing  of  our 
divine  Lord  Jesus  Christ :  who  also  hath  said,  What 
God  hath  joined  together  let  not  man  put  asunder. 
Moreover,  His  Holy  Apostle  Paul  has  commended 
unto  the  husband  the  example  of  Christ  in  loving 
His  Church,  and  unto  the  wife  the  willing  subjection 
of  the  Church  unto  Christ  as  her  Head.  Whence  we 
learn  that  Marriage  is  well-pleasing  to  God  our 
Saviour,  and  most  honourable  to  all  who  maintain 
therein  a  mutual  love  and  unshaken  fidelity. 

I  therefore,  a  minister  of  the  blessed  Gospel,  charge 
and  entreat  you  both,  to  seek  the  help  of  God  in  all 
your  duties ;  that  His  grace  may  make  your  union 
fruitful  of  comfort  in  thia  life,  and  a  furtherance  of 


Marriage.  19S 

your  everlasting  salvation,  to  the  glory  of  His  holy 
Name. 
y    Let  us  pray. 

r\  MOST  Holy  and  Most  Merciful  Lord  God,  we  be- 
^^  seech  Thee  for  these  Thy  servant  and  handmaid ; 
that  they  may,  with  a  reverent  trust  in  Thee,  enter  into 
the  covenant  of' marriage,  as  they  now  propose,  and 
truly  keep  all  the  vows  which  they  are  about  to  make 
according  to  Thy  Word.  Grant  this,  0  our  Father, 
with  the  forgiveness  of  our  sins,  through  Christ  Thy 
Son.     Amen. 


Then  the  Minister  shall  bid  the  man  and  the  woman  to  join  their  right  hands : 
which  being  done,  he  shall  say  to  the  man  : 


f  /  ~r\OST  thou ,  take  this  woman ,  before  God 

^     and  these  witnesses,  to  be  thy  wife  ? 


Answer.     Yes. 


[/T\OST  thou  promise  to  love  her,  honour  her,  defend 
^  her,  sustain  and  cherish  her,  in  joy  and  in  sor- 
row, in  health  and  in  sickness,  in  prosperity  and  in 

adversity  ?     Wilt  thou  be  faithful  to  her  in  all  things 
9 


194  Confirmation  of 

<■' 
1^      as  becometh  a  good  husband,  and  never  forsake  her  so 

/        long  as  je  both  do  live  ? 
•/  -  ■.■    . 

Answer.    Yes. 

The  Minister  shall  then  say  to  the  woman : 


D 


OST  thou ,  take  this  man ,  before  God 

and  these  witnesses,  to  be  thy  husband  ? 


Answer.    Yes. 

T\OST  thou  promise  to  love  him,  honour  him,  cher- 
-*-^  ish  and  obey  him,  in  joy  and  in  sorrow,  in 
health  and  in  sickness,  in  prosperity  and  in  adversity  ? 
Wilt  thou  be  faithful  to  him  in  all  things  as  becometh 
a  good  wife,  and  never  forsake  him  so  long  as  ye  both 
do  live  ? 

Answer.    Yes. 

[When  a  ring  is  used.] 


To  the  man : 


W 


HAT  pledge  dost  thou  give  that  thou  wilt  per- 
form these  thy  vows  ?  ^ 


The  man  shows  the  ring. 


To  the  woman: 


D 


Marriage.  195 

OST  thou  receive  this  ring  in  token  of  the  same 
on  thy  part  ? 

Then  the  man  (the  Minister  guiding  his  hand)  shall  place  the  ring  on  the  fourth 
finger  of  her  left  hand. 

Then  the  Minister  shall  say : 

Let  us  pray,. 

r\  GOD,  our  heavenly  Father,  Thou  hast  heard 
^  these  promises  of  Thy  servant  and  handmaid  to 
each  other :  Mercifully  condescerid  to  unite  their  hearts 
and  lives  by  all  the  grace  and  true  affection  of  a  happy 
marriage.  May  their  love  never  know  change,  or 
doubt,  or  decay.  Replenish  them  with  Thy  Holy 
Spirit,  that  they  may  piously  live  together  according 
to  Thy  divine  will.  May  they  be  blessed  in  each 
other,  and  both  in  the  knowledge  of  Christ  Thy  Son, 
and  may  they  at  last  enter  Thy  blessed  Kingdom : 
Through  Jesus  Christ  our  Redeemer.     Amen. 

Then  the  Minister,  taking  their  clasped  hands  between  his,  shall  say:    "  . 

IVTOW  in  the  Name  of  God,  Father,  Son,  and  Holy 
-'-^  Ghost,  whose  servant  I  am,  I  pronounce  you 
husband  and  wife. 

The  Lord  bless  you,  and  keep  you. 

The  Lord  make  His  face  shine  upon  you,  and  be 
gracious  unto  you. 


196  Marriage. 

The  Lord  lift  up  His  countenance  upon  you,  and 
give  you  peace. 


Then,  still  holding  their  hands,  the  Minister  shall  say  to  the  company  of  wit- 
nesses : 


TirHAT  therefore  God  hath  joined  together,  let  not 
man  put  asunder. 


"  Let  the  Minister  keep  a  proper  raster  for  the  names  of  all  persons  whom 
he  marries,  and  of  the  time  of  their  marriage,  for  the  perusal  of  all  whom  it 
may  concern." 


THE 


BURIAL    OF   THE    DEAD 


^  «>  ♦  #■ 


THE  SERVICE  AT  THE  HOUSE. 


One  or  more  of  wliicli  may  be  read  at  discretion. 

TT  IS  better  to  go  to  the  house  of  mourning,  than  to 
-^  go  to  the  house  of  feasting :  for  that  is  the  end 
of  all  men ;  and  the  living  will  lay  it  to  his  heart. 

Affliction  cometh  not  forth  of  the  dust,  neither  doth 
trouble  spring  out  of  the  ground.  See  now,  saith  the 
Lord,  that  I,  even  I  am  He,  and  there  is  no  God  with 
Me.  I  kill,  and  I  make  alive  ;  I  wound,  and  I  heal ; 
neither  is  there  any  that  can  deliver  out  of  My 
hand. 

The  Lord  destroyeth  the  hope  of  man.  The  Lord 
prevaileth  against  him,  and  he  passeth.  He  changeth 
his  countenance,  and  sendeth  him  away. 

It  is  of  the  Lord's  mercies  that  we  are  not  con- 


198  Burial  of  the  Dead. 

sumed ;  because  His  compassions  fail  not.  Like  as  a 
father  pitieth  his  children,  so  the  Lord  pitieth  them 
that  fear  Him.  For  He  knoweth  our  frame ;  He  re- 
membereth  that  we  are  dust. 

Though  He  cause  grief,  yet  will  He  have  compas- 
sion according  to  the  multitude  of  His  mercies.  For 
He  doth  not  afflict  willingly,  nor  grieve  the  children 
of  men. 

Despise  not  thou  the  chastening  of  the  Lord,  nor 
faint  when  thou  art  rebuked  of  Him :  for  whom  the 
Lord  loveth  He  chasteneth,  and  scourgeth  every  son 
whom  He  receiveth.  Now  no  chastening  for  the  pres- 
ent seemeth  to  be  joyous,  but  grievous  :  nevertheless 
afterward  it  yieldeth  the  peaceable  fruit  of  righteous- 
ness unto  them  which  are  exercised  thereby.  Where- 
fore lift  up  the  hands  which  hang  down,  and  the  feeble 
knees. 

For  we  have  not  an  High  Priest  which  can  not  be 
touched  with  the  feeling  of  our  infirmities ;  but  was 
in  all  points  tempted  like  as  we  are,  yet  without  sin. 
Let  us  therefore  come  boldly  unto  the  throne  of  grace, 
that  we  may  obtain  mercy,  and  find  grace  to  help  in 
time  of  need. 

Leave  thy  fatherless  children,  saith  the  Lord;   I 


Service  at  the   House.         i99    - 

will  preserve  them  alive ;  and  let  thy  widows  trust  in 
Me. 

A  Father  of  the  fatherless,  and  a  Judge  of  the 
widows,  is  God  in  His  holy  habitation. 

When  my  father  and  my  mother  forsake  me,  then 
the  Lord  will  take  me  up. 

For  an  Infant: 

And  David  said,  While  the  child  was  yet  alive,  I 
fasted  and  wept :  for  I  said.  Who  can  tell  whether  God 
will  be  gracious  to  me,  that  the  child  may  live? 
But  now  he  is  dead,  wherefore  should  I  fast  ?  Can  I 
bring  him  back  again?  I  shall  go  to  him,  but  he 
shall  not  return  to  me. 

The  Lord  gave,  and  the  Lord  hath  taken  away : 
blessed  be  the  Name  of  the  Lord. 

A  bruised  reed  shall  He  not  break,  and  the  smok- 
ing flax  shall  He  not  quench. 

Let  us  pray. 

prater. 
f\  1t0^  Merciful  God,  Father  of  our  Lord  Jesus 
^     Christ,  Who  hath   said.  Blessed  are   they  that 
mourn,  for  they  shall  be  comforted :  Under  the  shadow 


200l  Burial  of  the  Dead. 

of  Thy  judgments  we  come  to  Thee,  and  acknowledge 
Thee  to  be  the  Lord  alone.  Thou  hast  entered  this 
house  with  Thy  chastenings :  Oh  !  be  Thou  nigh  in 
Thy  tender  compassion  to  these  afflicted  ones.  Bless 
Thy  sorrowing  servants  with  Thy  consolations,  which 
are  neither  few  nor  small.  Convert  them  wholly  to 
Thyself,  and  fill  their  bleeding  hearts  with  Thy  love. 
Make  the  night  of  their  grief  to  be  light  by  Thy  grace. 
Deliver  us  Thy  servants,  we  pray  Thee,  from  the 
bondage  of  our  sins,  that  we  may  be  free  from  fear 
of  death^  and  be  ready  at  Thy  coming.  Yea,  Lord ! 
for  Christ's  sake,  sanctify  us  by  Thy  Holy  Spirit,  that 
whether  we  live,  we  may  live  unto  the  Lord,  or  whether 
we  die,  we  may  die  unto  the  Lord ;  whether  we  live  or 
die,  may  we  be  the  Lord's.     Amen. 


rpHE  grace  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  be  with  you 
-*-     all.    Amen. 


THE 

SERVICE    AT    THE    CHURCH 


[If  the  service  be  performed  in  whole  at  the  house,  then  a  part  of  the  follow- 
ing may  be  used  in  connection  with  the  preceding  form.] 

Upon  entering  the  church,  when  all  shall  have  taken  the  attitude  of  prayer, 
let  the  Ninetieth  Psalm  be  read  as  an 


INVOCATION. 

T  ORD,  Thou  hast  been  our  dwelling-place  in  all 

-^     generations.     Before  the  mountains  were  brought 

forth,  or  ever  Thou  hadst  formed  the  earth   and  the 

world,  even  from  everlasting  to  everlasting,  Thou  art 

God.     Thou  turnest  man  to  destruction ;  and  sajest, 

Return,  ye  children  of  men.     For  a  thousand  years  in 

Thy  sight  are  but  as  yesterday  when  it  is  past,  and  as 

a  watch  in   the  night.     Thou  carriest  them  away  as 

with  a  flood  ;  they  are  as  a  sleep  :  in  the  morning  they 

are  like  grass  which  groweth  up.     In  the  morning  it 

flourisheth  and  groweth  up ;  in  the  evening  it  is  cut 

down,  and  withereth.     For  we  are  consumed  by  Thine 

anger,  and  by  Thy  wrath  are  we  troubled.     Thou  hast 

set  our  iniquities  before  Thee,  our  secret  sins  in  the 
9* 


202  BUKIALOF    THE    DeAD. 

light  of  Thy  countenance.  For  all  our  days  are 
passed  away  in  Thy  wrath  :  we  spend  our  years  as  a 
tale  that  is  told.  The  days  of  our  years  are  three 
score  years  and  ten ;  and  if  by  reason  of  strength  they 
be  four-score  years,  yet  is  their  strength  labour  and 
sorrow ;  for  it  is  soon  cut  off,  and  we  fly  away.  Who 
knoweth  the  power  of  Thine  anger  ?  even  according  to 
Thy  fear,  so  is  Thy  wrath.  So  teach  us  to  number 
our  days,  that  we  may  apply  our  hearts  unto  wisdom. 
Eeturn,  0  Lord  !  how  long  ?  and  let  it  repent  Thee 
concerning  Thy  servants.  0  satisfy  us  early  with  Thy 
mercy  ;  that  we  may  rejoice  and  be  glad  all  our  days. 
Make  us  glad  according  to  the  days  wherein  Thou  hast 
afflicted  us,  and  the  years  wherein  we  have  seen  evil. 
Let  Thy  work  appear  unto  Thy  servants,  and  Thy 
glory  unto  their  children.  And  let  the  beauty  of  the 
Lord  our  God  be  upon  us ;  and  estabhsh  Thou  the 
work  of  our  hands  upon  us :  yea,  the  work  of  our 
hands  establish  Thou  it.  Through  Jesus  Christ  our 
Lord.    Amen. 

Hero  may  be  sung  a  Funeral  Hymn. 

Then  let  there  bo  read  two  portions  of  Scripture,  from  the  Gospels  and  tho 
Epistles.    The  following  are  suitable  passages : 

Hear  the  comfortable  words  of  the  Gospel  of  our 


Service  at  the  Church.        203 

Saviour  Jesus   Christ,   as   they   are  written   in  the 
eleventh  chapter  of  Saint  John  : 

rpHEN  said  Mai-tha  unto  Jesus,  Lord,  if  Thou  hadst 
-■-  been  here,  my  brother  had  not  died.  But  I 
know,  that  even  now,  whatsoever  Thou  wilt  ask  of 
God,  God  will  give  it  thee.  Jesus  saith  unto  her. 
Thy  brother  shall  rise  again.  Martha  saith  unto  Him, 
I  know  that  he  shall  rise  again  in  the  resurrection 
at  the  last  day.  Jesus  said  unto  her,  I  am  the  Resur- 
rection, and  the  Life  :  he  that  believeth  on  Me,  though 
he  were  dead,  yet  shall  he  live  :  and  whosoever  liveth 
and  believeth  in  Me,  shall  never  die.  Believest  thou 
this  ?  She  saith  unto  Him,  Yea,  Lord  :  I  believe  that 
Thou  art  the  Christ,  the  Son  of  God,  which  should 
come  into  the  world. 

Or  this: 

Hear  the  Gospel  of  our  Saviour  Jesus  Christ,  in 
the  fifth  chapter  of  Saint  John : 

T7ERILY,  verily,  I  say  unto  you.  He  that  heareth 

My  word,  and  believeth  on  Him  that  sent  Me, 

hath  everlasting  life,  and  shall  not  come  into  condem- 

.  '*'0      M 


204  BuRiALOF  THE   Dead. 

nation ;  but  is  passed  from  death  unto  life.  Yerilj, 
verilj,  I  say  unto  you,  The  hour  is  coming,  and  now 
is,  when  the  dead  shall  hear  the  voice  of  the  Son  of 
God :  and  they  that  hear  shall  live.  For  as  the 
Father  hath  life  in  Himself,  so  hath  He  given  to  the 
Son  to  have  life  in  Himself;  and  hath  given  Him 
authority  to  execute  judgment  also,  because  He  is  the 
Son  of  Man.  Marvel  not  at  this :  for  the  hour  is 
coming,  in  the  which  all  that  are  in  the  graves  shall 
hear  His  voice,  and  shall  come  forth  ;  they  that  have 
done  good,  unto  the  resurrection  of  life;  and  they 
that  hate  done  evil,  unto  the  resurrection  of  dam- 
nation. 

For  an  Infant: 

Hear  the  comfortable  words  of  our  Saviour  Jesus 
Christ: 

rpHEY  brought  young  children  to  Him,  that  He 
-■-  should  touch  them :  and  His  disciples  rebuked 
those  that  brought  them.  But  when  Jesus  saw  it, 
He  was  much  displeased,  and  said  unto  them,  Suffer 
the  little  children  to  come  unto  Me,  and  forbid  them 
not ;  for  of  such  is  the  Kingdom  of  Heaven.  Verily  I 
say  unto  you,  Whosoever  shall  not  receive  the  King- 


Service  at   the   Church.        205 

dom  of  God  as  a  little  child,  he  shall  not  enter 
therein. 

Or  this: 

rpAKE  heed  that  ye  despise  not  one  of  these  little 
-^  ones  ;  for  I  say  unto  you,  That  in  heaven  their 
angels  do  always  behold  the  face  of  My  Father  which 
is  in  heaven.  For  the  Son  of  Man  is  come  to  save 
that  which  was  lost.  How  think  ye?  If  a  man 
have  a  hundred  sheep,  and  one  of  them  be  gone  astray, 
doth  He  not  leave  the  ninety  and  nine,  and  goeth  into 
the  mountains,  and  seeketh  that  which  is  gone  astray  ? 
And  if  so  be  that  he  find  it,  verily  I  say  unto  you,  he 
rejoiceth  more  of  that  sheep,  than  of  the  ninety  and 
nine  which  went  not  astray.  Even  so,  it  is  not  the 
will  of  your  Father  which  is  in  heaven,  that  one  of 
these  little  ones  should  perish. 

Then  let  the  second  portion  of  Scripture  be  reaiil,  from  1  Corinthians,  xv. : 

H^ar  also  what  the  Apostle  Paul  saith  : 

IVTOW  is  Christ  risen  from  the  dead,  and  become  the 
-'-*  first-fruits  of  them  that  slept.  For  since  by 
man  came  death,  by  Man  came  also  the  Resurrection 
of  the  dead.     For  as  in  Adam  all  die,   even  so  in 


206  BUKIAL    OF    THE    DeAD. 

Christ  shall  all  be  made  alive.  But  every  man  in  his 
own  order :  Christ  the  first-fruits ;  afterward  they 
that  are  Christ's,  at  His  coming. — But  some  man  will 
say,  How  are  the  dead  raised  up  ?  and  with  what  body 
do  they  come  ?  Thou  fool,  that  which  thou  sowest  is 
not  quickened,  except  it  die  :  and  that  which  thou 
sowest,  thou  sowest  not  that  body  that  shall  be,  but 
bare  grain,  it  may  chance  of  wheat,  or  of  some  other 
grain :  but  God  giveth  it  a  body  as  it  hath  pleased 
Him,  and  to  every  seed  his  own  body. — So  also  is  the 
Resurrection  of  the  dead.  It  is  sown  in  corruption, 
it  is  raised  in  incorruption :  it  is  sown  in  dishonour, 
it  is  raised  in  glory :  it  is  sown  in  weakness,  it  is 
raised  in  power  :  it  is  sown  a  natural  body,  it  is  raised 
a  spiritual  body.  There  is  a  natural  body,  and  there 
is  a  spiritual  body.  And  so  it  is  written.  The  first 
man  Adam  was  made  a  living  soul ;  the  last  Adam 
was  made  a  quickening  spirit.  Howbeit  that  was  not 
first  which  is  spiritual,  but  that  which  is  natural ;  and 
afterward  that  which  is  spiritual.  The  first  man  is  of 
the  earth,  earthy :  the  second  Man  is  the  Lord  from 
heaven.  As  is  the  earthy,  such  are  they  also  that  are 
earthy :  and  as  is  the  heavenly,  such  are  they  also 
that  are  heavenly.     And  as  we  have  borne  the  image 


Service  at  the  Church.        207 

of  the  earthy,  we  shall  also  bear  the  image  of  the 
heavenly.  Now  this  I  say,  brethren,  that  flesh  and 
blood  can  not  inherit  the  Kingdom  of  God :  neither 
doth  corruption  inherit  incorruption.  Behold,  I  show 
you  a  mystery :  We  shall  not  all  sleep,  but  we  shall 
all  be  changed,  in  a  moment,  in  the  twinkling  of  an 
eye,  at  the  last  trump  :  for  the  trumpet  shall  sound, 
and  the  dead  shall  be  raised  incorruptible,  and  we 
shall  be  changed.  For  this  corruptible  must  put  on 
incorruption,  and  this  mortal  must  put  on  immortal- 
ity. So  when  this  corruptible  shall  have  put  on  incor- 
ruption, and  this  mortal  shall  have  put  on  immortality, 
then  shall  be  brought  to  pass  the  saying  that  is  writ- 
ten. Death  is  swallowed  up  in  victory.  0  death, 
where  is  thy  sting  ?  0  grave,  where  is  thy  victory  ? 
The  sting  of  death  is  sin,  and  the  strength  of  sin  is 
the  law.  But  thanks  be  to  God,  which  giveth  us  the 
victory,  through  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ. 

Or  this,  from  Revelation  xx. : 

Hear  also  the  Revelation  of  St.  John : 


A 


ND  I  saw  a  great  white  throne,  and  Him  that  sat 
.   on  it,  from  whose  face  the  earth  and  the  heaven 


208  Burial  of   the   Dead. 

fled  away;  and  there  was  found  no  place  for  them. 
And  I  saw  the  dead,  small  and  great,  stand  before 
God ;  and  the  books  were  opened :  and  another  book 
was  opened,  which  is  the  Book  of  life :  and  the  dead 
were  judged  out  of  those  things  which  were  written  in 
the  books,  according  to  their  works.  And  the  sea 
gave  up  the  dead  which  were  in  it ;  and  death  and  hell 
delivered  up  the  dead  which  were  jn  them  :  and  thej 
were  judged  every  man  according  to  their  works. 

Or  this,  from  Kevelation  xxi. : 

A  ND  I  saw  a  new  heaven  and  a  new  earth  :  for  the 
-^  first  heaven  and  the  first  earth  were  passed 
away ;  and  there  was  no  more  sea.  And  I  John  saw 
the  Holy  City,  New  Jerusalem,  coming  down  from 
God.  out  of  heaven,  prepared  as  a  bride  adorned  for  her 
husband.  And  I  heard  a  great  voice  out  of  heaven, 
saying,  Behold,  the  Tabernacle  of  God  is  with  men, 
and  He  will  dwell  with  them,  and  they  shall  be  His 
People,  and  God  Himself  shall  be  with  them,  and  be 
their  God.  And  God  shall  wipe  away  all  tears  from 
their  eyes  ;  and  there  shall  be  no  more  death,  neither 
sorrow,  nor  crying,  neither  shall  there  be  any  more 
pain  :  for  the  former  things  are  passed  away. 


BUEIAL    OF    THE    DeAD.  209 

Let  us  praj. 

PRAYER. 

r\  GOD,  whose  days  are  without  end,  and  whose 
^  mercies  can  not  be  numbered  :  Make  us,  we  be- 
seech Thee,  deeply  sensible  of  the  shortness  and  un- 
certainty of  human  life ;  and  let  Thy  Holy  Spirit  lead 
us  through  this  vale  of  misery,  in  holiness  and  right- 
eousness, all  the  days  of  our  lives :  that  when  we  shall 
have  served  Thee  in  our  generation,  we  may  be  gath- 
ered unto  our  fathers,  having  the  testimony  of  a  good 
conscience ;  in  the  communion  of  the  Christian  Church ; 
in  the  confidence  of  a  certain  faith ;  in  the  comfort  of 
a  reasonable,  religious,  and  holy  hope ;  in  favour  with 
Thee  our  God,  and  in  perfect  charity  with  the  world : 
all  which  we  ask  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord. 
Amen. 

rpHE  grace  of  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  and  the  love 
-*-  of  God,  and  the  communion  of  the  Holy  Ghost, 
be  with  you  all.     Amen. 


THE 


SERVICE    AT    THE    GRAVE 


II /TAN  goeth  to  his  long  home,  and  the  mourners  go 
-^^-*-     about  the  streets. 

"What  man  is  he  that  liveth,  and  shall  not  see 
death  ?  Shall  he  deliver  his  soul  from  the  hand  of  the 
grave  ? 

I  heard  a  voice  from  heaven  saying  unto  me,  Write : 
Blessed  are  the  dead  which  die  in  the  Lord  from 
henceforth.  Yea,  saith  the  Spirit,  that  they  may  rest 
from  their  labours,  and  their  works  do  follow  them. 

Blessed  be  the  God  and  Father  of  our  Lord  Jesus 
Christ,  which  according  to  His  abundant  mercy  hath 
begotten  us  again  unto  a  lively  hope  by  the  Resurrec- 
tion of  Jesus  Christ  from  the  dead,  to  an  inheritance 
incorruptible,  and  undefiled,  and  that  fadeth  not  away, 
reserved  in  heaven  for  you,  who  are  kept  by  the  powei 
of  God  through  faith  unto  salvation. 


Service  at  the  Grave.         211 

At  the  time  of  burial,  the  Minister  stiall  say : 

rpHE  dust  returns  to  dust,  and  the  spirit  unto  God 
-*-  who  gave  it :  therefore  do  we  now  commit  the 
body  of  our  departed  brother  to  the  earth  \or  deep] 
until  that  hour  when  earth  and  sea  shall  give  up  their 
dead,  at  the  coming  of  our  Lord  Jesus"  Christ  to  judge 
the  world. 
Let  us  pray. 

A  LMIGHTY  and  Everlasting  God!  we  Thine  un- 
■^^  worthy  servants  beseech  Thee  for  Christ's  sake 
to  have  mercy  upon  us.  From  the  borders  of  the 
grave  we  cry  unto  Thee  ;  for  Christ's  sake  have  mercy 
upon  us.  It  hath  pleased  Thee  to  call  out  of  this 
world  the  soul  of  our  departed  friend,  whose  body 
we  have  now  brought  for  his  burial.  We  humbly  en- 
treat Thee  that  we  may  with  true  penitence  of  heart 
receive  the  warning  of  Thy  providence,  and  consider 
that  by  reason  of  our  guilt  it  is  appointed  unto  us  to 
die,  and  that  in  a  moment  when  we  think  not  we  may 
appear  before  Thee.  Yea,  Lord,  by  reason  of  our 
sins  we  lie  in  the  midst  of  death.  Spare  us,  0  Lord, 
0  most  pitiful  and  long-suffering  Lord  God,  spare  us 
a  little  longer,  that  we  may  take  refuge  in  Christ, 


212  Burial  of  the   Dead. 

abiding  in  Him,  that  when  He  shall  appear  we  may 
have  confidence,  and  not  be  ashamed  at  His  coming. 
0  Merciful  God  and  Father  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ, 
suffer  none  of  us  to  live  without  godliness  and  die 
without  hope ;  but  constrain  us  mightily  by  Thy 
love :  that  we,-  being  renewed  by  Thy  grace,  and 
accepted  through  Christ's  intercession,  may  walk  be- 
fore Thee  in  newness  of  life,  and  praise  Thee  for  ever 
among  the  Assembly  of  the  Elect,  where  there  shall 
be  no  more  death,  and  sorrow  and  sighing  shall  flee 
away :  which  we  implore  for  the  sake  of  Him  who  has 
taught  us  to  say,. 

/^UR  Father  which  art  in  Heaven,  Hallowed  be  Thy 
"  Name.  Thy  kingdom  come.  Thy  will  be  done 
in  earth,  as  it  is  in  heaven.  Give  us  this  day  our 
daily  bread.  And  forgive  us  our  debts,  as  we  forgive 
our  debtors.  And  lead  us  not  into  temptation,  but  de- 
liver us  from  evil :  For  Thine  is  the  kingdom,  and  the 
power,  and  the  glory,  for  ever.     Amen. 


N 


BENEDICTION. 

OW  the  God  of  Peace,  that  brought  again  from 
the  dead  our  Lord  Jesus,  that  great  Shepherd 


Service  at  the  Grave.         213 

of  the  sheep,  through  the  blood  of  the  everlasting 
covenant,  make  you  perfect  in  every  good  work  to 
do  His  will,  working  in  you  that  which  is-  well-pleas- 
ing in  His  sight,  through  Jesus  Christ.     Amen. 


It^.* 


**#- 


PUBLIC  DISCIPLINE,  ORDINATION, 

&c.,  &c. 


THE    FORM 


PUBLIC    EXCOMMUNICATION 


"When  any  member  has  been  adjudged  to  be  cut  off  from  the  communion 
of  the  Church,  it  is  proper  that  the  sentence  be  publicly  pronounced  against 
him. 

"The  Minister  shall  give  the  church  or  congregation  a  short  narrative  of  the 
several  steps  which  have  been  taken  with  respect  to  their  offending  brother, 
and  inform  them  that  it  has  been  found  necessary  to  cut  him  off  from  the 
communion;  and  shall  in  the  presence  of  the  church  or  congregation  pro- 
nounce this  sentence,  in  the  following,  or  like  form,  viz. : 

"  lie  shall  begin  by  showing  the  authority  of  the  Church  to  cast  out  un- 
worthy members,  from  Matt,  xviii.  15-18  ;  1  Cor.  v.  1-5  ;  and  shall  briefly  ex- 
plain the  nature,  use,  and  consequences  of  this  censure ;  warning  the  people 
to  avoid  all  unnecessary  intercourse  with  him  who  is  cast  out." 


ADDKESS. 

/^UR  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  the  King  and  Lawgiver  of 
^  the  Church,  hath  commanded,  that  if  a  brother 
trespass  against  us,  we  go  and  tell  him  his  fault  be- 
tween us  and  him  alone :  and  if  he  will  not  hear  us, 
that  we  then  take  with  us  one  or  two  more,  that  in 
the  mouth  of  two  or  three  witnesses  every  word  may- 
be established ;  and  if  he  shall  neglect  to  hear  them, 

that  we  tell  it  to  the  church ;    and  if  he  neglect  to 
10 


218  The   Form  of 

hear  the  Church,  that  he  be  to  us  as  a  heathen  man, 
and  a  publican.  We  are  also  directed,  that  we  keep 
not  company,  if  any  man  that  is  called  a. brother  be  a 
fornicator,  or  covetous,  or  an  idolater,  or  a  railer,  or  a 
drunkard,  or  an  extortioner  ;  with  such  an  one  no  not 
Jto  eat.  And  that  we  withdraw  ourselves  from  every 
brother  that  walketh  disorderly,  and  note  that  man, 
and  have  no  company  with  him,  that  he  may  be 
ashamed.  According  to  these  laws  of  Christ,  we 
have  admonished  this  offending  brother,  who  hath 
greatly  sinned  against  God,  and  grieved  and  injured 
the  Church ;  we  have  earnestly  prayed,  and  patiently 
waited  for  his  repentance  :  but  we  have  not  prevailed. 
For  after  all)  he  continueth  impenitent,  and  will  not 
be  persuaded  to  confess  and  forsake  his  sin. 

"Then  shall  the  Minister  say: 

"  Tl  WHEREAS  A.  B.  hath  been,  by  sufficient  proof, 
*  '  convicted  of  [here  state  the  offence]^  and, 
after  much  admonition  and  prayer,  obstinately  refuseth 
to  hear  the  Church,  and  hath  manifested  no  evidence 
of  repentance :  Therefore,  in  the  Name  and  by  the 
authority  of  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  I  pronounce  him 
to  be  excluded  from  the  communion  of  the  Church." 
Further,  we  exhort  you,  beloved  brethren,  to  keep 


Public  Excommunication.       219 

no  company  with  him,  that  he  may  be  ashamed;  yet 
count  him  not  as  an  enemy,  but  at  all  times  admonish 
him  as  you  would  a  brother.  In  the  mean  time  let 
every  one  take  warning  by  this  and  such  like  examples, 
to  fear  the^  Lord,  and  diligently  take  heed  unto  him- 
self, if  he  thinketh  he  standeth,  lest  he  fall :  but 
having  true  fellowship  with  the  Father  and  His  Son 
Jesus  Christ,  together  with  all  faithful  Christians,  re- 
main stedfast  therein  to  the  end,  and  so  obtain  eternal 
salvation. 

''  After  which,  prayer  shall  be  made  that  the  blessing  of  God  may  follow  His 
ordinance,  for  the  conviction  and  reformation  of  the  excommunicated  person, 
and  for  the  establishment  of  all  true  believers." 

C1INCE  then  it  is  God  that  worketh  in  us,  both  to  will 
^  and  to  do  of  His  good  pleasure,  let  us  call  upon 
His  holy  Name,  with  confession  of  our  sins,  saying, 

n  RIGHTEOUS  God  and  Merciful  Father,  we 
^^  bewail  our  sins  before  Thy  high  Majesty .  and 
acknowledge  that  we  have  deserved  the  grief  and 
sorrow  caused  unto  us  by  the  cutting  off  of  this  our 
late  fellow-member ;  yea^  we  all  deserve,  shouldst 
Thou  enter  into  judgment  with  us,  by  reason  of  our 
great  transgressions,  to  be  cut  off  and  banished  from 
Thy  sight.     But,  0  Lord,  Thou  art  merciful  unto  us 


220      Public  Excommunication. 

for  Christ's  sake :  forgive  us  our  trespasses,  for  we 
heartily  repent  of  them ;  and  daily  work  in  our  hearts 
a  greater  measure  of  sorrow  for  them :  that  we, 
fearing  Thy  judgments  which  Thou  executest  against 
the  stiff-necked,  may  endeavour  to  please  Thee.  Grant 
us  grace  to  avoid  all  pollution  of  the  world,  and  those 
who  are  cut  off  from  the  communion  of  the  Church, 
that  we  may  not  make  ourselves  partakers  of  their 
sins :  and  that  he  who  is  excommunicated  may  become 
ashamed  of  his  sins.  And  since  Thou  desirest  not 
the  death  of  a  sinner,  but  that  he  may  repent  and  live, 
and  the  bosom  of  Thy  Church  is  always  open  for  those 
who  turn  away  from  their  wickedness,  we  therefore 
humbly  beseech  Thee  to  kindle  in  our  hearts  a  pious 
zeal,  that  we  may  labour,  with  Christian  admonitions 
and  examples,  to  bring  again  this  excommunicated 
person  into  the  right  way,  together  with  all  those  who, 
through  unbelief  or  dissoluteness  of  life,  go  astray. 

Give  Thy  blessing  to  our  admonition,  that  we  may 
have  reason  to  rejoice  again  in  him  for  whom  we  now 
mourn :  and  that  Thy  holy  Name  may  be  praised, 
through  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  who  hath  thus  taught 
us  to  pray : 

Our  Father,  etc. 


w 


THE    FORM 


PUBLIC    REPENTANCE. 


"  When  any  one  who  hath  been  excommunicated  shall  be  so  aflfected  with 
his  state  as  to  be  brought  to  repentance,  and  to  desire  to  be  re-admitted  to  the 
privileges  of  the  Church,  the  Session,  having  obtained  sufficient  evidence  of 
his  sincere  penitence,  shall,  with  the  advice  and  concurrence  of  the  Presby- 
tery, restore  him.  In  order  to  which,  the  Minister  shall,  on  two  Lord's  days 
previous  thereto,  inform  the  congregation  of  the  measures  which  have  been 
taken  with  the  excommunicated  person,  and  of  the  resolution  of  the  Session 
to  receive  him  again  to  the  communion  of  the  Church. 

"  On  the  day  appointed  for  his  restoration,  when  the  other  parts  of  divine 
service  are  ended,  before  pronouncing  the  blessing,  the  Minister  shall  call  upon 
the  excommunicated  person,  and  propose  to  him,  in  the  presence  of  the  con- 
gregation, the  following  questions : 


"  T^O  you,  from  a  deep  sense  of  your  great  wicked- 
-^  ness,  freely  confess  your  sin,  in  thus  rebelling 
against  God,  and  in  refusing  to  hear  His  Church  :  and 
do  you  acknowledge  that  you  have  bee^  in  justice  and 
mercy  cut  off  from  the  communion  of  the  saints  ? 

"  Answer.     I  do. 

''  Do  you  now  voluntarily  profess  your  sincere  re- 
pentance and  deep  contrition,  for  your  sin  and  obsti- 


222  The  Form  of 

nacy :  and  do  you  humbly  ask  the  forgiveness  of  God, 
and  of  His  Church  ? 

^^  Answer,     I  do. 

'^^  Do  you  sincerely  promise,  through  Divine  grace, 
to  live  in  all  humbleness  of  mind  and  circumspection  ; 
and  to  endeavour  to  adorn  the  doctrine  of  God  our 
Saviour,  by  having  your  conversation  as  becometh  the 
Gospel?  .  ,  ..    ,  . 

^'  Answer.     I  do. 

"  Here  the  Minister  shall  give  the  penitent  a  suitable  exhortation,  addressing 
him  in  the  bowels  of  brotherly  love,  encouraging  and  comforting  him." 

"pE  therefore  assured  in  thy  heart,  my  beloved 
■^  brother,  that  the  Lord  hath  again  received  thee 
in  mercy.  Be  diligent  henceforth  to  guard  thyself, 
that  thou  mayst  not  fall  again  into  sin :  love  Christ, 
for  many  sins  are  forgiven  thee. 


"Then  he  shall  pronounce  the  sentence  of  restoration,  in  the  following 
■words : 


"  TirHEREAS  you,  A.  B.,  have  been  shut  out  from 
'  '  th^  communion  of  the  faithful,  but  have  now 
manifested  such  repentance  as  satisfies  the  Church  t 
In  the  Name  of  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  and  by  His 
authority,  I  declare  you  absolved  from  the  sentence 


Public  Kepentance.  223 

formerly  denouneed  against  you ;  and  I  do  receive  you 
into  the  communion  of  the  Church,  that  you  may  be 
a  partaker  of  all  the  benefits  of  the  Lord  Jesus,  to 
your  eternal  salvation. 

"The -Nvliole  shall  be  concluded  with  prayer." 

\  ND  you,  beloved  Christians,  receive  this  your 
■^■*-  brother  with  hearty  affection  ;  count  him  no 
longer  as  a  stranger,  but  as  a  fellow-citizen- with  the 
saints,  and  of  the  household  of  God.  And  whereas 
we  can  have  no  good  of  ourselves,  let  us  praise  and 
magnify  the  Lord  Almighty,  and  implore  His  mercy, 
saying, 

nRACIOUS  God  and  Father,  we  thank  Thee 
^  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord,  that  Thou  hast 
been  pleased  to  give  unto  this  our  fellow-Christian  re- 
pentance unto  life,  and  unto  us  occasion  to  rejoice  in  his 
conversion.  We  beseech  Thee,  show  him  Thy  mercy, 
that  he  may  become  more  and  more  assured  of  the  re- 
mission of  his  sins,  and  that  he  may  receive  from 
thence  inexpressible  joy  and  delight,  to  serve  Thee. 
And  whereas  he  hath  heretofore  by  his  sins  offended 
many,  grant  that  he  may,  by  his  conversion,  edify 


224  Public   Eepentance. 

many.  May  he  stedfastly  i^alk  in  Thy  ways,  unto  the 
end ;  and  may  we  learn  from  this  example,  that  with 
Thee  is  mercy,  that  Thou  mayest  be  feared ;  so  that 
we,  counting  him  for  our  brother  and  fellow -heir  of 
eternal  life,  may  unitedly  serve  Thee  with  filial  fear 
and  obedience  all  the  days  of  our  life,  through  Jesus 
Christ  our  Lord,  in  whose  Name  we  thus  conclude  our 
prayer — Our  Father,  etc. 


.y 


THE    FORM 


ORDAINING  ELDERS  AND  DEACONS 


If  ordained  separately,  this  form  may  be  used  as  occasion  shall  require. 

"  When  any  person  shall  have  been  elected  to  either  of  these  offices,  and  shall 

have  declared  his  willingness  to  accept  thereof,  he  shall  be  set  apart  in  the 

following  manner : 
"  After  sermon,  the  Minister  shall  state,  in  a,  concise  manner,  the  warrant  and 

nature  of  the  office  of  ruling  Elder  or  Deacon,  together  with  the  character. 

proper  to  be  sustained  and  the  duties  to  be  fulfilled  by  the  officer  elect." 


TIELOVED  Christians,  you  know  that  we  have  sev- 
■^  eral  times  published  unto  you  the  names  of  our 
brethren  here  present  who  are  chosen  to  the  office  of 
Elders  and  Deacons  in  this  Church,  that  we  might 
know  whether  any  person  had  aught  to  allege  why 
they  should  not  be  set  apart  to  their  respective  offices. 
And  whereas  no  lawful  objection  hath  been  alleged 
against  them,  we  shall  in  the  Name  of  the  Lord  pro- 
ceed to  induct  them  into  the  same. 

But  first  we  invite  your  attention  to  a  short  declar- 
ation from  the  Word  of  God,  concerning  the  office  and 
10* 


^ 


226  Okdination  of 

duties  of  Elders  and  Deacons.  The  word  Elder, 
which  is  derived  from  the  Old  Testament,  and  signi- 
fies a  person  who  is  placed  in  an  honourable  office  of 
government  over  others,  is  applied  to  two  sorts  of  per- 
sons who  minister  in  the  Church  of  Jesus  Christ ;  for 
the  Apostle  saith  :  "  Let  the  elders  that  rule  well  be 
accounted  worthy  of  double  honour,  especially  they 
who  labour  in  the  Word  and  doctrine."  Hence  it  is 
evident  that  there  were  two  sorts  of  Elders  in  the 
Apostolic  Church :  the  former  whereof  did  labour  in 
the  Word  and  doctrine,  and  the  latter  did  not.  The 
first  were  the  Ministers  of  the  Word,  and  Pastors,  who 
preached  the  Word  and  administered  the  Sacraments  ; 
but  the  others,  though  they  did  not  labour  in  the 
Word,  yet  served  the  Church  by  taking  the  oversight 
thereof,  and  ruling  the  same  with  the  Ministers  of  the 
Word.  For  St.  Paul,  having  spoken  of  the  Ministry 
of  the  Word  of  reconciliation,  and  also  of  the  office  of 
distribution  or  Deaconship,  speaketh  afterwards  par- 
ticularly of  this  office,  saying:  "He  that  ruleth,  let 
him  do  it  with  diligence."  In  another  place,  he 
counts  "  governments"  among  the  gifts  and  offices 
which  God  hath  instituted  in  His  Church.  In  like 
manner  we  find  the  Apostle  exhorting  the  Elders  of 


Elders  and  Deacons.  227 

the  Church  of  Ephesus,  to  ''  take  heed  unto  them- 
selves and  to  all  the  flock  over  the  which  the  Holy 
Ghost  had  made  them  overseers." 

It  is  moreover  proper  that  such  officers  should  be 
joined  to  the  Ministers  of  the  Word  in  the  govern- 
ment of  the  Church,  that  there  may  be  no  lording 
over  God's  heritage  ;  which  can  sooner  creep  in  when 
the  government  is  in  the  hands  of  one,  or  a  very  few. 
And  thus  the  Ministers  of  the  Word,  together  with 
the  Elders,  form  an  Assembly  or  Council  of  the 
Church,  representing  the  whole  Body,  to  which  Christ 
alludes  when  He  saith,  ''Tell  the  Church;"  which 
can  in  no  wise  be  understood  of  all  and  every  member 
of  the  Church  in  particular,  but  very  properly  of 
those  who  govern  the  Church  out  of  which  they  are 
chosen. 

Therefore,  in  the  first  place,  the  office  of  the  Elders 
is,  together  with  the  Ministers  of  the  Word,  to  take 
the  episcopacy  or  oversight  of  the  Church  which  is 
committed  to  them.  In  the  discharge  of  their  duties, 
they  are  to  admit  to  its  communion  such  as  profess 
faith  in  Christ  and  repentance  for  their  sins  ;  diligent- 
ly to  look  whether  every  one  properly  deports  him- 
self in  his  doctrine  and  life  ;  to  admonish  those  who 


228  Ordinationof 

behave  disorderly ;  to  prevent  as  much  as  possible  the 
Sacrament  from  being  profaned ;  to  exercise  the  dis- 
cipline of  the  Church  against  such  as  offend ;  and  to 
receive  them  again  when  penitent  to  the  household  of 
faith. 

Secondly,  Since  the  Apostle  enjoineth  that  all 
things  shall  be  done  decently  and  in  order,  therefore  it 
is  also  the  duty  of  the  Elders  to  pay  regard  to  all 
Christian  ordinances ;  and  in  all  things  which  relate 
to  the  welfare  of  the  Church,  to  assist  the  Ministers 
of  the  Word  with  good  counsel,  to  visit  the  sick,  com- 
fort the  afflicted,  and  to  be  faithful  advisers  of  all  the 
flock  committed  to  their  care. 

Thirdly,  It  is  their  duty  particularly  to  have  regard 
unto  the  doctrine  and  life  of  the  Ministers  of  the 
Word,  that  all  things  may  be  directed  to  the  edifica- 
tion of  the  Church  ;  and  that  no  strange  doctrine  be 
taught,  according  to  that  which  we  read  where  tlie 
Apostle  exhorteth  the  Elders  to  watch  diligently 
against  the  wolves  who  might  come  into  the  sheepfold 
of  Christ :  for  the  performance  of  which  the  Elders 
are  in  duty  bound  diligently  to  search  the  Word  of 
God,  and  continually  to  be  meditating  on  the  mysteries 
of  faith. 


Elders   and   Deacons.  229 

,  Concerning  the  Deacons  :  Of  the  origin  and  insti- 
tution of  their  office  we  may  read  in  the  sixth  chapter 
of  the  Acts  :  where  we  find  that  the  Apostles  them- 
selves did  in  the  beginning  serve  the  poor ;  for  at  their 
feet  was  brought  the  price  of  the  things  that  were 
sold,  and  distribution  was  made  unto  every  man  ac- 
cording as  he  had  need.  But  afterwards,  when  a  mur- 
muring arose,  because  the  widows  of  the  Grecians  were 
neglected  in  the  daily  ministration,  men  were  chosen 
by  the  advice  of  the  Apostles,  who  should  make  the 
service  of  the  poor  their  peculiar  business  :  to  the  end 
that  the  Apostles  might  continually  give  themselves  to 
prayer,  and  to  the  Ministry  of  the  Word.  And  this 
has  been  continued  from  that  time  forward  in  the 
Church  ;  as  appears  from  Romans  xii.,  where  the 
Apostle,  speaking  of  this  office,  saith  :  "He  that  giv- 
eth,  let  him  do  it  with  simplicity."  And  speaking  of 
"helps,"  he  means  those  who  are  appointed  in  the 
Church  to  help  and  assist  the  poor  and  indigent  in 
time  of  need. 

From  these  passages  we  may  easily  gather  what  the 
Deacons'  office  is.  In  the  first  place,  it  is  their  duty 
to  collect  and  preserve  with  the  greatest  fidelity  and 
diligence  the  alms  which  are  given  to  the  poor,  and 


280  Ordination  OF 

that  thej  endeavour  that  sufficient  means  be  provided 
for  the  same.  The  second  part  of  their  office  consists 
in  distribution :  wherein  not  only  is  godlj  discretion 
required,  to  bestow  the  alms  only  on  the  proper  ob- 
jects of  charity,  but  also  cheerfulness  and  simplicity, 
to  assist  the  poor  with  becoming  sympathy,  hearty 
affection,  and  also  with  comfortable  words  from  Scrip- 
ture^— all  which  the  Apostle  requires  when  speaking 
of  the  duties  of  this  office. 

To  the  end,  therefore,  beloved  brethren , , 

that  every  one  may  hear  that  you  are  willing  to  take 
your  respective  offices  upon  you,  ye  shall  answer  to 
the  following  questions : 

"  "TiO  you  believe  the  Scriptures  of  the  Old  and  New 

•^^  Testaments  to  be  the  Word  of  God,  the  only 
infallible  rule  of  faith  and  practice  ? 

Do  you  sincerely  receive  and  adopt  the  Confession 
of  Faith  of  this  Church,  as  containing  the  system  of 
doctrine  taught  in  the  Holy  Scriptures  ? 

Do  you  approve  of  the  government  and  discipline 
of  the  Presbyterian  Church  in  these  United  States  ? 

Do  you  accept  the  office  of  ruling  Elder  [or 
Deacon,  as  the  case  may  be]  in  this  congregation, 


Elders  and  Deacons.  231 

and    promise    faithfully  to  perform    all    the    duties 
thereof? 

Do  you  promise  to  study  the   peace,   unity,   and 
purity  of  the  Church  ? 


"  The  Elder  or  Deacon  elect  having  answered  these  questions  in  the.  aflBrma- 
tive,  the  Minister  shall  address  to  the  members  of  the  Church  the  following 
question : 


''  "TiO  you,  the  members  of  this  Church,  acknowledge 
-^  and  receive  this  brother  as  a  ruling  Elder  [or 
Deacon],  and  do  you  promise  to  yield  him  all  that 
honour,  encouragement,  and  obedience,  in  the  Lord, 
to  which  his  office,  according  to  the  Word  of  God,  and 
the  constitution  of  this  Church,  entitles  him  ? 


"  The  members  of  the  Church  having  answered  this  question  in  the  affirma- 
tive, by  holding  up  their  right  hands,  the  Minister  shall  proceed  to  set  apart 
the  candidate,  by  prayer,  to  the  office  of  ruling  Elder,  or  Deacon,  as  the  case 
may  be." 


Let  us  pray. 


PRAYER. 


r\  LORD  God,  our  Heavenly  Father  !  we  thank 
^  Thee  that  it  hath  pleased  Thee,  for  the  better 
edification  of  Thy  Church,  to  ordain  in  it,  besides  the 
Ministers  of   the  Word,   rulers   and   assistants,   by 


232  Ordination  of 

whom  Thy  Church  may  be  preserved  in  peace  and 
prosperity,  and  the  indigent  assisted  ;  and  that  Thou 
hast  at  present  granted  us,  in  this  place,  men  who 
are  of  good  report,  and  we  hope  endowed  with  Thy 
Spirit.  We  beseech  Thee,  replenish  them  more  and 
more  with  such  gifts  as  are  necessary  for  them  in 
their  ministration  :  with  the  gifts  of  wisdom,  courage, 
discretion,  and  benevolence;  to  the  end  that  every 
one  may,  in  his  respective  office,  acquit  himself  as  is 
becoming:  The  Elders,  in  taking  diligent  heed  unto 
the  doctrine  and  conversation,  in  keeping  out  the 
wolves  from  the  sheep-fold  of  Thy  beloved  Son,  and  in 
admonishing  and  reproving  disorderly  persons.  In 
like  manner  the  Deacons,  in  carefully  receiving,  and 
liberally  and  prudently  distributing  the  alms  to  the 
poor,  and  in  comforting  them  with  Thy  holy  Word. 
Give  grace  both  to  the  Elders  and  to  the  Deacons, 
that  they  may  persevere  in  their  faithful  labour,  and 
never  become  weary  by  reason  of  any  trouble,  pain, 
or  persecution  of  the  world.  Grant  also  Thy  divine 
grace  to  this  people  over  whom  they  are  placed,  that 
they  may  willingly  submit  themselves  to  the  good  ex- 
hortations of  the  Elders,  counting  them  worthy  of 
honour  for  their  work's  sake.      Give  also  unto  them 


Elders  and  Deacons.  233 

liberal  hearts  toward  the  poor,  and  to  the  poor  grateful 
hearts  toward  those  who  help  and  serve  them  :  to  the 
end  that  ever  j  one  acquitting  himself  of  his  duty,  Thy 
holy  Name  may  thereby  be  magnified,  and  the  king- 
dom of  Thy  Son  Jesus  Christ  enlarged,  in  whose 
Name  we  conclude  our  prayer. 


To  be  said  by  tlie  Minister  and  People. 

/^UR  Father  which  art  in  heaven,  Hallowed  be  Thy 
^  Name.  Thy  kingdom  come.  Thy  will  be  done 
in  earth,  as  it  is  in  heaven.  Give  us  this  day  our 
daily  bread.  And  forgive  us  our  debts,  as  we  forgive 
our  debtors.  And  lead  us  not  into  temptation,  but  de- 
liver us  from  evil :  For  Thine  is  the  kingdom,  and  the 
power,  and  the  glory,  for  ever.     Amen. 


"  The  Minister,  having  set  apart  the  candidate  by  prayer,  shall  give  to  him 
and  to  the  congregation  an  exhortation  suited  to  the  occasion.  if- 

.  "  Where  there  is  an  existing  Session,  it  is  proper  that  the  members  of  that 
body,  at  the  close  of  the  service,  and  in  the  face  of  the  congregation,  take  the 
newly-ordaincd  Elder  by  the  hand,  saying  in  words  to  this  purpose  : 


"W 


E  give  you  the  right  hand  of  fellowship,  to  take 
part  of  this  office  with  us." 


THE    FORM 


FOE  OBDAININa 


MINISTERS    OF    THE    WORD    OP    GOD. 


"  The  day  appointed  for  Ordination  being  come,  and  the  Presbytery  con- 
vened, a  member  of  the  Presbytery  previously  appointed  to  that  duty  shall 
preach  a  sermon  adapted  to  the  occasion.  The  same,  or  another  member  ap- 
pointed to  preside,  shall  afterwards  briefly  recite  from  the  pulpit,  in  the  au- 
dience of  the  people,  the  proceedings  of  the  Presbytery  preparatory  to  this 
transaction  :  he  shall  point  out  the  nature  and  importance  of  this  ordinance, 
and  endeavour  to  impress  the  audience  with  a  proper  sense  of  the  solemnity 
of  the  transaction." 

ADDRESS. 

"nELOYED  brethren,  attend  to  a  short  declaration 
-*-^  taken  from  the  holy  Scriptures,  touching  the 
Ministry  of  reconciliation  and  the  pastoral  office. 
^  We  are  not  to  look  for  the  origin  of  this  office  in 
human  appointment,  but  in  God,  our  heavenly  Father, 
who,  being  willing  to  call  and  gather  a  Church  from 
among  the  corrupt  race  of  men  into  life  eternal,  doth, 
by  a  particular  mark  of  His  favour,  use  the  ministry 
of  men  therein.  Accordingly,  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ, 
shortly  before  His  ascension  to  heaven,  gave  to  His 
Apostles  the  commission,  "Go  ye  therefore  and  teach 


Ordination  of  Ministers.   235 

all  nations,  baptizing  them  in  the  Name  of  the  Father, 
and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost :  and  lo  I  I  am 
with  you  alway,  even  unto  the  end  of  the  world.'' 
Therefore  St.  Paul  saith  that  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ 
hath  given  ''some,  Apostles;  and  some.  Prophets; 
and  some,  Evangelists ;  and  some,  Pastors  and  Teach- 
ers :  for  the  perfecting  of  the  saints,  for  the  work  of 
the  Ministry,  for  the  edifying  of  the  Body  of  Christ." 
Thus  we  see  that  the  Pastoral  office  is  an  institution 
of  Christ. 

In  the  Ministry,  thus  divinely  appointed,  there  is 
no  superiority  of  rank  or  diversity  of  order ;  hut  all 
are  possessed  of  the  same  authority,  dignity,  and 
power  :  being  equally  clothed  with  the  right  of  preach- 
ing the  Gospel,  of  administering  the  Sacraments  and 
discipline  of  Christ's  house,  and  of  ordaining  others  to 
the  same  office.  ^ 

What  this  holy  office  of  Pastor  enjoins,  may  easily 
be  gathered  from  the  very  name  itself :  for,  as  it  is 
the  duty  of  the  shepherd  to  feed,  guide,  protect,  and 
rule  the  flock  committed  to  his  charge,  so  it  is  with 
regard  to  these  spiritual  shepherds  who  are  set  over 
the  Church  which  God  calleth  unto  salvation,  and  ac- 
counts as  sheep  of  His  pasture. 


286  Ordination  of 

The  pasture  with  which  these  sheep  are  fed  is  the 
Preaching  of  the  Gospel,  accompanied  with  prayer  and 
the  administration  of  the  holy  Sacraments.  The  same 
Word  of  God  is  likewise  the  staff  with  which  the  flock 
is  guided  and  ruled.  Therefore  the  ofiice  of  Pastors 
and  Ministers  of  God's  Word  is — 

Fii^st.  That  they  shall  faithfully  explain  to  their 
flocks  the  Word  of  the  Lord,  revealed  by  the 
writings  of  the  Prophets  and  Apostles,  and  apply  the 
same  to  tho  edification  of  the  hearers :  instructing, 
admonishing,  comforting,  and  reproving  according  to 
every  one's  need,  preaching  repentance  towards  God, 
and  reconciliation  to  Him  through  faith  in  Christ; 
and  refuting  from  the  holy  Scriptures  all  schisms  and 
heresies  which  are  repugnant  to  the  pure  doctrine. 
All  this  is  clearly  signified  to  us  in  holy  writ :  for  the 
Apostle  Paul  saith  that  these  ''  labour  in  the  word  ;" 
and  elsewhere  he  teacheth  that  this  must  be  done 
"  according  to  the  measure,"  or  rule,  ''  of  faith."  He 
writes  also  that  a  Pastor  must  ''rightly  divide  the 
Word  of  Truth."  In  another  place  he  proposes  him- 
self as  a  pattern  to  Pastors,  declaring  that  he  hath 
''publicly,  and  from  house  to  house,  taught  and  testi- 
fied repentance  toward  God  and  faith  toward  our  Lord 


Ministers.  237 

Jesus  Christ."  But  particularly  we  have  a  clear 
description  of  their  office,  where  the  Apostle  thus 
speaketh  :  ''  And  all  things  are  of  God,  who  hath  re- 
conciled us  to  Himself  by  Jesus  Christ,  and  hath  given 
to  us  the  Ministry  of  reconciliation ;  to  wit,  that  God 
was  in  Christ,  reconciling  the  world  unto  Himself,  not 
imputing  their  trespasses  unto  them,  and  hath  com- 
mitted unto  us  the  Word  of  reconciliation.  Now  then 
we  are  ambassadors  for  Christ,  as  though  God  did 
beseech  you  by  us  :  we  pray  you  in  Christ's  stead,  be 
ye  reconciled  to  God." 

So  also  concerning  the  refutation  of  false  doctrine, 
the  same  Apostle  saith,  that  a  Minister  must  "hold 
fast  the  faithful  Word  as  he  hath  been  taught,  that  he 
may  be  able  by  sound  doctrine  to  exhort  and  to  con- 
vince the  gainsayers." 

Secondly.  It  is  the  office  of  the  Ministers  publicly 
to  call  upon  the  Name  of  the  Lord  in  behalf  of  the 
whole  Congregation.  For  that  which,  the  Apostles  say, 
' '  We  ^ill  give  ourselves  continually  to  prayer  and  to 
the  Ministry  of  the  Word,"  is  common  to  these  Pas- 
tors TNith  the  Apostles  :  to  which  St.  Paul  alluding 
speaketh  thus  to  Timothy  :  "I  exhort  therefore,  that, 
first  of  all,   supplications,   prayers,  intercessions,  and 


238  Ordinationof 

giving  of  thanks  be  made  for  all  men ;  for  kings  and„ 
for  all  that  are  in  authority,  that  we  may  lead  a  quiet 
and  peaceable  life  in  all  godliness  and  honesty  4  for 
this  is  good  and  acceptable  in  the  sight  of  God  our 
Saviour." 

Thirdly.  Their  office  is  to  administer  the  Sacra- 
ments which  the  Lord  hath  instituted  as  seals  of  His 
grace.  As  is  evident  from  the  command  given  by 
Christ  to  the  Apostles,  and  in  them  to  all  Pastors : 
"  Baptizing  them  in  the  Name  of  the  Father,  and  of 
the  Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost."  Likewise  the 
Apostle,  speaking  of  the  institution  of  the  Lord's 
Supper,  saith,  "  For  I  have  received  of  the  Lord  that 
which  also  I  delivered  unto  you." 

Finally.  It  is  the  duty  of  the  Ministers  of  the 
Word,  together  with  the  other  Elders,  to  maintain  the 
discipline  of  the  Church ;  and  to  govern  it  in  such 
manner  as  the  Lord  hath  ordained.  For  Christ  hav- 
ing spoken  of  the  Christian  discipline,  says  to  His 
Apostles:  "Whatsoever  ye  shall  bind  on  earth  shall 
be  bound  in  heaven."  This  is  the  reason  why  the 
Pastors  are  in  Scripture  called  "  Stewards  of  God," 
and  "  Bishops :"  for  they  have  the  oversight  of  the 
house  of  God,  to  the  end  that  every  thing  may  be 


Ministers.  239 

done  decently  and  in  order ;  and  also  have  authority 
to  open  and  shut  with  the  keys  committed  to  them  the 
Kingdom  of  Heaven,  according  to  the  charge  given 
them  by  God. 

From  these  things  may  be  learned  what  a  glorious 
work  the  Ministerial  office  is  ;  yea,  how  highly  neces- 
sary it  is  for  man's  salvation  :  which  is  also  the  reason 
why  the  Lord  wills  that  such  an  office  should  always 
remain.  For  Christ  said,  when  He  sent  forth  His 
Apostles  to  officiate  in  this  holy  function,  ''  Lo  !  I  am 
with  you  alway,  even  unto  the  end  of  the  world;" 
where  we  see  His  pleasure  is,  that  this  holy  office 
should  always  be  maintained  on  earth.  And  therefore 
St.  Paul  exhorteth  Timothy,  to  "commit  the  things 
that  he  had  heard  of  him  to  faithful  men  who  should 
be  able  to  teach  others  :"  as  he  also,  having  ordained 
Titus  a  Minister,  further  commanded  him  ''  to  ordain 
Elders  in  every  city." 

Forasmuch  therefore  as  we,  for  the  maintaining  of 
this  office  in  the  Church  of  God,  are  now  to  ordain  a 
new  Minister  of  the  Word,  and  have  sufficiently 
spoken  of  the  office  of  such  persons,  therefore  you, 

beloved  brother  ,  shall  answer  to  the  following 

questions  which  shall  be  proposed  to  you,  to  the  end 


240  Okdination  OF 

that  it  may  appear  to  all  here  present  that  you  are  in- 
clined to  accept  this  oflSce  as  it  has  been  described. 

''  "TjO  you  believe  the  Scriptures  of  the  Old  and  New 

^^  Testaments  to  be  the  Word  of  God,  the  only 
infallible  rule  of  faith  and  practice  ? 

Do  you  sincerely  receive  and  adopt  the  Confession 
of  Faith  of  this  Church,  as  containing  the  system  of 
doctrine  taught  in  the  Holy  Scriptures  ? 

Do  you  approve  of  the  government  and  discipline 
of  the  Presbyterian  Church  in  these  United  States  ? 

Do  you  promise  subjection  to  your  brethren  in  the 
Lord? 

Have  you  been  induced,  as  far  as  you  know  your 
own  heart,  to  seek  the  office  of  the  holy  Ministry  from 
love  to  God,  and  a  sincere  desire  to  promote  His  glory 
in  the  Gospel  of  His  Son  ? 

Do  you  promise  to  be  zealous  and  faithful  in  main- 
taining the  truths  of  the  Gospel,  and  the  purity  and 
peace  of  the  Church  :  whatever  persecution  or  opposi- 
tion may  arise  unto  you  on  that  account  ? 

Do  you  engage  to  be  faithful  and  diligent  in  the  ex- 
ercise of  all  private  and  personal  duties,  which  become 
you  as  a  Christian  and  a  Minister  of  the  Gospel ;  as 


Ministers.  241 

"well  as  in  all  relative  duties,  and  the  public  duties 
of  jour  office  :  endeavouring  to  adorn  the  profession 
of  the  Gospel  b j  your  conversation  ;  and  walking  with 
exemplary  piety  before  the  flock  over  which  God  shall 
make  you  overseer  ? 

Are  you  now  willing  to  take  the  charge  of  this  con- 
gregation, agreeably  to  your  declaration  at  accepting 
their  call  ?  And  do  you  promise  to  discharge  the 
duties  of  a  Pastor  to  them,  as  God  shall  give  you 
strength  ?       ■ 

"  The  Candidate  having  answered  these  questions  in  the  affirmative,  the  Pre- 
siding Minister  shall  propose  to  the  people  the  following  questions : 


"D" 


you,  the  people  of  this  congregation,  continue 

to  profess*  your  readiness  to  receive , 

whom  you  have  called  to  be  your  Minister  ? 

Do  you  promise  to  receive  the  Word  of  truth  from 
his  mouth,  with  meekness  and  love  ;  and  to  submit  to 
him  in  the  due  exercise  of  discipline  ? 

Do  you  promise  to  encourage  him  in  his  arduous 
labour,  and  to  assist  his  endeavours  for  your  instruc- 
tion and  spiritual  edification  ? 

And  do  you  engage  to  continue  to  him,  while  he  is 
your  Pastor,  that  competent  worldly  maintenance 
which  you  have  promised ;  and  whatever  else  you  may 

n 


242  Ordination   of 

see  needful  for  the  honour  of  religion,  and  his  comfort 
among  you  ? 

"  The  people  having  answered  these  questions  in  the  affirmative,  (by  holding 
up  their  right  hands,)  the  Candidate  shall  kneel  down  in  the  most  conve- 
nient part  of  the  church.  Then  the  Presiding  Minister  shall,  hy  prayer,  and 
with  the  laying  on  of  the  hands  of  the  Presbytery,  according  to  the  Apos- 
tolic example,  solemnly  ordain  him  to  the  holy  office  of  the  Gospel  Min- 
istry. 

*'  As  it  is  sometimes  desirable  and  important  that  a  candidate  who  has  not  re- 
ceived a  call  to  be  the  pastor  of  a  particular  congregation,  should  neverthe- 
less be  ordained  to  the  work  of  the  Gospel  Ministry,  as  an  Evangelist  to 
preach  the  GoSpel,  administer  Sealing  Ordinances,  and  organize  churches,  in 
frontier  or  desolate  settlements  ;  in  this  case,  the  last  of  the  preceding  ques- 
tions [and  the  questions  to  the  people]  shall  be  omitted,  and  the  following 
used  aS  a  substitute :  viz., 

*^  Are  you  now  willing  to  undertake  the  work  of  an 
Evangelist ;  and  do  you  promise  to  discharge  the  du- 
ties which  may  be  incumbent  on  you  in  this  character, 
as  God  shall  give  you  strength  ?" 

Let  us  pray. 

%^  THE    ORDAININa   PRAYER. 

r\  LORD,  to  Whom  all  power  is  given  in  heaven  and 
"  in  earth  !  Thou  art  the  Eternal  Son  of  the  Fa- 
ther; Who  hast  so  loved  Thy  Church,  that  to  redeem 
and  purify  it  Thou  didst  humble  Thyself  to  the  death 
of  the  Cross,  and  there  shed  Thy  most  innocent 
blood.  And  to  retain  this  Thy  most  excellent  benefit 
in  memory.  Thou  hast  appointed  in  Thy  Church  pas- 
tors and  teachers,  to  instruct,  admonish,  and  comfort 


Ministers.  243 

Thy  people.  Look  upon  us  mercifully,  0  Lord,  Thou 
only  King,  Teacher,  and  High  Priest  to  Thine  own 
flock ;  and  send  unto  this  Thy  servant  our  brother, 
whom  in  Thy  Name  we  set  apart  and  ordain,  such  a 
portion  of  Thy  Holy  Spirit,  that  he  may  rightly  di- 
vide Thy  Word,  to  the  instruction  of  Thy  flock,  and 
the  overthrow  of  error  and  vice.  Give  unto  him, 
good  Lord,  Thy  grace  and  wisdom,  whereby  the  ene- 
mies of  Thy  truth  may  be  confounded,  the  blind  and 
ignorant  edified,  and  Thy  sheep  fed  in  the  wholesome 
pastures  of  Thy  most  Holy  "VYord.  Multiply  Thy 
graces  upon  him.  Illuminate  him  with  Thy  Holy 
Spirit.  Comfort  and  strengthen  him  in  all  virtue. 
Govern  and  guide  his  ministry,  to  the  praise  of  Thy 
Holy  Name,  the  promotion  of  Thy  Kingdom,  the  com- 
fort of  Thy  Church,  and  to  the  plain  discharge  of  his 
own  conscience  in  the  day  of  the  Lord  Jesus  :  To 
Whom,  with  the  Father  and  with  the  Holy  Ghost,  be 
all  honour,  praise,  and  glory,  now  and  ever.     Amen. 


«'  Prayer  being  ended,  he  shall  rise  from  his  knees ;  and  the  Minister  who  pre- 
sides shall  first,  and  afterward  all  the  members  of  the  Presbytery  in  their 
order,  take  him  by  the  right  hand,  saying,  in  words  to  this  purpose, 


"W 


E  give  you  the  right  hand  of  fellowship,  to  take 
part  of  this  ministry  with  us." 


244  Ordination  of 


•'  After  which  the  Minister  presiding,  or  some  other  appointed  for  the  purpose, 
shall  give  a  solemn  charge  in  the  Name  of  God  to  the  newly-ordained 
Bishop,  and  to  the  people,  to  persevere  in  the  discha.'ge  of  their  mutual 
duties." 


CHARGE   TO   THE   NEWLY-ORDAINED    MINISTER,    AND 
THE    CONGREGATION. 

rpAKE  heed,  therefore,  beloved  brother,  and  fellow- 
-*-  servant  in  Christ,  unto  thyself  and  to  all  the 
flock,  over  the  which  the  Holj  Ghost  hath  made  thee 
overseer ;  to  feed  the  Church  of  God,  which  He  hath 
purchased  with  His  own  blood.  Love  Christ,  and  feed 
His  sheep,  taking  the  oversight  thereof  not  bj  con- 
straint, but  willingly ;  not  for  filthy  lucre,  but  of  a 
ready  mind,  neither  as  being  lord  over  God's  heritage, 
but  being  an  ensample  to  the  flock.  Be  thou  an  ex- 
ample of  the  believers,  in  word,  in  conversation,  in 
charity,  in  spirit,  in  faith,  in  purity.  Give  attend- 
ance to  reading,  to  exhortation,  to  doctrine.  Neglect 
not  the  gift  that  is  in  thee,  meditate  upon  these  things, 
give  thyself  wholly  to  them,  that  thy  profiting  may 
appear  to  all :  take  heed  unto  the  doctrine,  and  con- 
tinue stedfast  therein.  Bear  patiently  all  sufierings 
and  oppressions,  as  a  good  soldier  of  Jesus  Christ ;  for 
in  doing  this  thou  shalt  both  save  thyself  and  them 
that  hear  thee.     And  when  the  chief  Shepherd  shall 


Ministers.  24 -y 

appear,  thou  shalt  receive  a  crown  of  glory  that  fadeth 
not  away. 

A  ND  you  likewise,  beloved  Christians,  receive  this 
-^^  your  Minister  in  the  Lord  with  all  gladness,  and 
hold  such  in  reputation.  Remember  that  God  Him- 
self through  Him  speaketh  unto  you  and  beseecheth 
you.  Receive  the  Word,  which  he,  according  to  the 
Scripture,  shall  preach  unto  you,  not  as  the  word  of 
men,  but  (as  it  is  in  truth)  the  Word  of  God.  Let 
the  feet  of  those  that  preach  the  Gospel  of  peace,  and 
bring  glad  tidings  of  good  things,  be  beautiful  and 
pleasant  unto  you.  Obey  them  that  have  the  rule 
over  you,  and  submit  yourselves  :  for  they  watch  for 
your  souls,  as  they  that  must  give  account,  that  they 
may  do  it  with  joy  and  not  with  grief;  for  that  is  un- 
profitable for  you.  If  you  do  these  things,  it  shall 
come  to  pass,  that  the  peace  of  God  shall  enter  into 
your  houses,  and  that  you  who  receive  this  man  in  the 
name  of  a  prophet,  shall  receive  a  prophet's  reward, 
and  through  his  preaching,  believing  in  Christ,  shall 
through  Christ  inherit  life  eternal. 

"Then  the  presiding  Minister  shall,  by  prayer,  recommend  both  the  newly- 
ordained  Minister  and  the  congregation,  to  the  grace  of  God,  and  His  holy 
keeping." 


♦ 


246  Ordination  OF 

Let  us  pray. 

PRAYER. 

■jl /TERCIFUL  Father,  we  thank  Thee  that  it  pleas- 
-'-'-*-  eth  Thee,  by  the  ministry  of  men,  to  gather  a 
Church  to  Thyself  unto  life  eternal,  from  amongst  the 
children  of  men.  We  bless  Thee  for  so  graciously 
providing  the  church  in  this  place  with  a  faithful 
Minister.  We  beseech  Thee  to  qualify  him  daily  more 
and  more  by  Thy  Holy  Spirit,  for  the  ministry  to 
which  Thou  hast  ordained  and  called  him.  Enlighten 
his  understanding  to  comprehend  Thy  holy  Word,  and 
give  him  utterance,  that  he  may  boldly  open  his 
mouth,  to  make  known  and  dispense  the  mysteries  of 
the  Gospel.  Endue  him  with  wisdom  and  valour,  to 
rule  the  people  aright  over  whom  he  is  set,  and  to  pre- 
serve them  in  Christian  peace,  to  the  end  that  Thy 
Church,  under  his  administration  and  by  his  good  ex- 
ample, may  increase  in  number  and  in  virtue.  Grant 
him  courage  to  bear  the  difficulties  and  troubles  which 
be  may  meet  with  in  his  ministry,  that  being  strength- 
ened by  the  comfort  of  Thy  Spirit,  he  may  remain 
stedfast  to  the  end,  and  be  received  with  all  faithful 
servants  into  the  joy  of  his  Lord.  Give  Thy  grace 
also  to  this  people  and  church,  that  they  may  becom- 


Ministers.  247 

inglj  deport  themselves  towards  this  their  Minister ; 
that  they  may  acknowledge  him  to  be  sent  of  Thee ; 
that  they  may  receive  his  doctrine  with  all  reverence, 
and  submit  themselves  to  his  exhortations  :  To  the  end 
that  they  may  by  his  Word,  believing  in  Christ,  be 
made  partakers  of  eternal  life.  Hear  us,  0  Father, 
through  Thy  beloved  Son,  who  hath  thus  taught  us  to 
pray:  , 

THE   lord's   PRAYER; 

To  be  said  by  the  Minister  and  People. 

/^UR  Father  which  art  in  heaven,  Hallowed  be  Thy 
^  Name.  Thy  kingdom  come.  Thy  will  be  done 
in  earth,  as  it  is  in  heaven.  Give  us  this  day  our 
daily  bread.  And  forgive  us  our  debts,  as  we  forgive 
our  debtors.  And  lead  us  not  into  temptation,  but 
deliver  us  from  evil :  For  Thine  is  the  kingdom,  and 
the  power,  and  the  glory,  for  ever.     Amen. 

"  Finally,  after  singing  a  Psalm,  lie  shall  dismiss  the  congregation  with  the 
usual" 

BLESSING. 

rpHE  grace  of  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  and  the  love 
-*-  of  God,  and  the  communion  of  the  Holy  Ghost, 
be  with  you  all.     Amen. 


THE    FORM 

FOE  THE 

INSTALLATION    OF    A    PASTOR 


ADDRESS. 

"FIOR  the  advancement  of  His  glory  in  the  salvation 
-*-  of  the  children  of  men,  it  hath  mercifully  pleased 
the  great  Head  of  the  Church,  not  only  to  ordain  the 
Ministry  of  reconciliation,  but  to  institute  various 
offices  in  His  Church.  Accordingly,  the  Apostle  de- 
clares that  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ  hath  given  some, 
"  apostles ;  and  some,  prophets ;  and  some,  evangelists  ; 
and  some,  pastors  and  teachers ;  for  the  perfecting  of 
the  saints,  for  the  work  of  the  ministry,  for  the  edify- 
ing of  the  body  of  Christ."  The  offices  thus  enumer- 
ated are  both  extraordinary  and  ordinary  :  The  for- 
mer have  ceased,  as  the  occasions  Avhich  called  for 
their  services  have  passed;  but  the  latter  continue, 
and  will  remain  in  the  Church  during  the  entire  dis- 
pensation of  grace.      These   ordinary  and   perpetual 


Installation.  249 

officers  are  teachers  and  bishops,  or  pastors.  The  pas- 
toral office  is  the  first  in  the  Church  both  in  dignity 
and  usefulness.  It  is  constituted  by  the  Head  of  the 
Church,  when  one  of  His  ministering  servants  is  set 
over  a  particular  church  or  people  as  their  spiritual 
teacher,  shepherd,  and  overseer.  It  belongs  to  his 
office  to  pray  for  and  with  his  people,  as  their  mouth 
unto  God ;  to  read  the  sacred  Scriptures  publicly  in 
the  sanctuary  to  the  people ;  to  feed  the  flock  com- 
mitted to  his  charge  with  the  pure  Word  of  God ;  to 
dispense  the  holy  Sacraments  agreeably  to  the  insti- 
tution of  Christ ;  to  maintain  Christian  discipline  ;  to 
edify  the  congregation,  and  especially  the  youth,  by 
catechetical  and  biblical  instruction ;  to  administer 
comfort  to  the  sick  and  afflicted ;  to  lead  the  inquiring 
and  troubled  in  mind  to  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ :  and 
as  a  faithful  servant  of  Jesus  Christ,  to  fulfil  the 
whole  work  of  the  Gospel  ministry. 

In  the  discharge  of  these  duties,  he  is  entitled  to  the 
cordial  co-operation  of  the  people  of  his  charge,  and 
more  especially  of  the  elders,  deacons,  and  members 
of  the  church.  They  should  see  that  he  is  so  sus- 
tained as  to  be  free  from  distracting,  worldly  cares ; 

should  cherish  towards   him  all  suitable  respect;  be 
11* 


250  Installation. 

bound  to  him  in  ardent  affection;  be  tender  of  his 
reputation;  assistant  to  him  in  their  counsels;  wait 
upon  his  ministry  with  punctuality  and  attention ; 
commend  him  and  his  labours,  by  prayer,  to  the  bless- 
ing of  the  God  of  all  grace :  and,  in  every  possible 
manner,  endeavour  to  be  fellow-helpers  with  him  in 
saving  souls  and  advancing  the  kingdom  of  our  Lord 
and  Saviour  Jesus  Christ. 

Thus,  while  the  pastoral  office  requires  on  the  part 
of  him  who  is  honoured  with  it,  all  faithfulness,  dili- 
gence, care,  and  circumspection,  it  demands,  on  the 
part  of  the  people,  all  proper  support,  encouragement, 
and  obedience  in  the  Lord  towards  him  who  is  set 
over  them.  These  mutual  duties  are  enjoined  by  the 
Apostle  when  he  exhorts  :  ''  Obey  them  that  have  the 
rule  over  you,  and  submit  yourselves  :  for  they  watch 
for  your  souls,  as  they  that  must  give  account,  that 
they  may  do  it  with  joy  and  not  with  grief;"  and 
again,  "We  beseech  you  to  know  them  which  labour 
among  you,  and  are  over  you  in  the  Lord,  and  to 
esteem   them   very  highly   in  love  for   their   works' 


Forasmuch,  then,    as  you,    beloved  brother,  have 
been  regularly  called  by  the  proper  authorities  to 


Installation.  251 

take  charge  of  this  church,  and  you  have  signified 
your  acceptance  of  this  call,  we  shall  now,  in  the 
Name  of  the  Lord,  propose  to  you  the  following 
questions : 

''    A  RE  you  now  willing  to  take  the  charge  of  this 
■^■^    congregation,  as  their  pastor,  agreeably  to  your 
declaration  at  accepting  their  call  ? 

Do  you  conscientiously  believe  and  declare,  as  far  as 
you  know  your  own  heart,  that  in  taking  upon  you 
this  charge,  you  are  influenced  by  a  sincere  desire  to 
promote  the  glory  of  God,  and  the  good  of  His 
Church? 

Do  you  solemnly  promise,  that,  by  the  assistance  of 
the  grace  of  God,  you  will  endeavour  faithfully  to  dis- 
charge all  the  duties  of  a  pastor  to  this  congregation ; 
and  will  be  careful  to  maintain  a  deportment  in  all 
respects  becoming  a  Minister  of  the  Gospel  of  Christ, 
agreeably  to  your  Ordination  engagements? 


"  To  all  these,  having  received  satisfactory  answers,  the  Presiding  Minister 
shall  say : 


G 


CD,  our  heavenly  Father,  who  hath   called  thee 
to  the  office  of  the  Ministry,  and  to  take  the 


252  Installation. 

oversight  of  this  church,  enlighten  thee  with  His 
Holy  Spirit,  strengthen  thee  with  His  hand,  and  so 
govern  thee  in  thy  Ministry,  that  thou  mayest  decently 
and  fruitfully  walk  therein,  to  the  glory  of  His  Name, 
and  to  the  advancement  of  the  Kingdom  of  His  Son 
Jesus  Christ.     Amen. 


"Then  he  shall  propose  to  the  people  the  same  or  like  questions  as  those  di- 
rected under  the  head  of  Ordination  [page  245] ;  which,  having  been  also 
satisfactorily  answered,  by  holding  up  the  right  hand  in  testimony  of  assent, 
he  shall  solemnly  pronounce  and  declare  the  said  Minister  to  be  regularly 
constituted  the  Pastor  of  that  congregation.  A  charge  shall  then  be  given 
to  both  parties,  as  directed  in  the  case  of  Ordination  ;  and  after  prayer  [as  in 
that  form],  and  singing  a  Psalm  adapted  to  the  transaction,  the  congregation 
Bhall  be  dismissed  with  the  usual" 


BENEDICTION. 

rpHE  grace  of  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  and  the  love 
-*-      of  God,  and  the  communion  of  the  Holy  Ghost, 


be  with  you  all.     Amen. 


THE    OFFICE 


DEDICATION    OF    A    CHURCH. 


PREFACE. 

npHUS  saith  the  Lord,  The  heaven  is  My  throne, 
-*-  and  the  earth  is  My  footstool :  where  is  the 
house  that  ye  build  unto  Me  ?  and  where  is  the  place 
of  My  rest?  For  all  those  things  hath  Mine  hand 
made,  and  all  those  things  have  been,  saith  the  Lord ; 
but  to  this  man  will  I  look,  even  to  him  that  is  poor 
and  of  a  contrite  spirit,  and  trembleth  at  My  word. 

INVITATION. 

TTAVING  therefore  this  promise,  dearly  beloved, 
'^-^  let  us  draw  near  with  a  true  heart,  in  full  assu- 
rance of  faith,  and  make  known  our  requests  unto 
God. 

INVOCATION. 

A  LMIGHTY  God,  Who  hast  promised  to  be  pre- 
■^^     sent  with  Thy  people,   and  to  grant  their  re- 


254  Dedication  of 

quests  in  the  Name  of  Thj  well-beloved  Son :  Look 
down,  we  beseech  Thee,  upon  us,  and  for  the  sake  of 
Him  who  is  our  only  Saviour  and  Mediator  with  Thee, 
fulfil  Thy  promise  in  our  behalf :  that  our  thoughts 
being  lifted  up,  and  our  desires  drawn  forth  unto 
Thee,  we  may  seek  Thee  acceptably  this  day :  Through 
Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 


To  be  said  by  the  Minister  and  People. 

/^UK  Father  which  art  in  Heaven,  Hallowed  be  Thy 
^  Name.  Thy  kingdom  come.  Thy  will  be  done 
in  earth,  as  it  is  in  heaven.  Give  us  this  day  our 
daily  bread.  And  forgive  us  our  debts,  as  we  for- 
give our  debtors.  And  lead  us  not  into  temptation, 
but  deliver  us  from  evil :  For  Thine  is  the  kingdom, 
and  the  power,  and  the  glory,  for  ever.     Amen. 

Then  follows  the  singing  of  a  Psalm,  or  Hymn  of  praise  and  thanksgiving. 


Next  the  reading  of  Scripture  out  of  the  Old  and  New  Testaments. 
The  following  is  an  appropriate  selection  : 

1  Kings,  yiii.  22-63.  Heb.  x.  19-27. 


After  which  the  General  Prayer,  which  may  be  extemporaneous,  or  selected 
from  the  forms  for  Divine  Service  on  the  Lord's  Day. 

Then  let  there  be  sung  a  Hymn  before  the 

SERMON. 


A  Church.  255 


At  the  close  of  which  the  Minister  shall  call  upon  the  people  to  arise,  and 
dedicate  their  house  to  the  Triune  God. 


.    PRAYER   OP   DEDICATION. 

TTOLY,  Holy,  Holy,  Lord  God  Almighty,  which  is, 
-'--^  and  was,  and  is  to  come :  the  whole  earth  is  full 
of  Thy  glory  !  Thine,  0  Lord,  is  the  greatness,  and 
the  power,  and  the  glory,  and  the  victory,  and  the 
majesty ;  for  all  that  is  in  the  heaven  and  in  the  earth 
is  Thine.  Now,  therefore,  we  thank  Thee,  0  God, 
and  praise  Thy  glorious  Name. 

But  who  are  we,  that  we  should  be  able  to  offer  so 
willingly  after  this  sort?  For  all  things  come  of 
Thee,  and  of  Thine  own  do  we  give  Thee.  0  Lord 
our  God,  all  this  store  that  we  have  prepared  to  build 
Thee  an  house  for  Thy  holy  Name,  cometh  of  Thy 
hand  and  is  all  Thine  own. 

Now  behold,  0  Lord  our  God,  and  look  unto  this 
place  where  we  are  gathered  in  Thy  Name  ;  and  have 
respect  to  the  prayer  of  Thy  servants  and  to  their  sup- 
plication, to  hearken  unto  the  cry  and  the  prayer  that 
Thy  servants  pray  before  Thee  this  day,  to  take  for 
Thine  own  this  house  which  we  would  give  Thee  ! 

O  Lord  God,  Who  art  from  everlasting  to  everlast- 
ing, and  Whose  kingdom  is  without  end.  Maker  of 


256  Dedication  OF 

heaven  and  earth  and  sea^  and  all  that  in  them  is ; 
King  of  kings  and  Lord  of  lords,  Lawgiver,  Defender, 
and  Judge  alone  :  to  Thee  we  dedicate  it. 

Hoi  J  and  blessed  Trinity,  Father,  Son,  and  Holy 
Ghost ;  three  Persons  in  one  God  :  to  Thee  we  dedi- 
cate it. 

Father  of  all  who  believe  in  Jesus,  and  God  and 
Father  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  here  meet  Thou 
with  Thy  children,  teach  them,  strengthen  them,  and 
bless  them  :  to  Thee  we  dedicate  it. 

Son  of  God,  the  Only-begotten  of  the  Father,  Head 
over  all  things,  the  Lord  our  Righteousness,  Saviour, 
Shepherd,  High  Priest,  and  Advocate,  here  draw  all 
men  unto  Thee ;  here  sprinkle  Thy  ransomed  ones 
with  Thine  atoning  blood ;  here  make  Thy  flock  to  lie 
down  in  green  pastures  beside  the  living  waters  ;  here 
be  Thou  a  shadow  from  the  heat  and  a  refuge  from  the 
tempest ;  and,  while  Thy  people  worship  in  the  outer 
sanctuary,  pray  for  them  within  the  Holiest  of  all :  to 
Thee  we  dedicate  it. 

Holy  Ghost,  proceeding  from  the  Father  and  the 
Son,  Who  didst  come  down  upon  our  Lord  Jesus  beside 
Jordan,  and  upon  the  Church  at  the  Pentecost,  Who 
takest  up  Thine  abode  in  all  behevers,  Comforter,  In- 


A   Church.  257 

spirer,  Sanctifier,  here  display  Thy  power,  succeed 
Thy  truth,  give  hope  to  the  penitent  and  gladness  to 
the  mourner.  Subdue  Thy  foes,  hallow  Thy  Church, 
and  accomplish  all  the  glory  of  redemption :  to  Thee 
we  dedicate  it. 

Arise,  0  Lord,  into  Thy  rest.  Thou  and  the  ark  of 
Thy  strength  ! 

But  will  God  in  very  deed  dwell  with  men  on  the 
earth  ?  Behold,  the  heaven  and  heaven  of  heavens 
cannot  contain  Thee ;  how  much  less  this  house  which 
we  have  builded  ?  Yet  dwellest  Thou  also  with  him 
that  is  of  a  contrite  and  humble  spirit.  So  be  Thine 
eyes  opened  toward  this  house  night  and  day ;  and  to- 
ward the  place  of  which  Thou  hast  said.  My  Name 
shall  be  there  ;  and  hearken  Thou  unto  the  supplica- 
tion of  Thy  servants  and  of  Thy  people  Israel  when 
they  shall  pray  toward  this  place  ;  and  hear  Thou  in 
heaven.  Thy  dwelling-place ;  and  when  Thou  hearest, 
forgive.  Dwell  Thou  with  us  in  Thy  tabernacle,  while 
we  are  yet  in  the  wilderness  ;  then  take  us  up  to  Thy 
house  in  heaven,  that  we  may  dwell  with  Thee  for 
ever. 

Give  ear,  0  Shepherd  of  Israel,  Thou  that  leadest 


25S        Dedication  of  a  Church. 

Joseph  like  a  flock  :  Thou  that  dwellest  between  the 
cherubim,  shine  forth. 

How  dreadful  is  this  place  !     This  is  none  other  but 
the  house  of  God,  and  this  is  the  gate  of  heaven ! 


SCRIPTURAL 


AND   OTHER 


OCCASIONAL    PRAYERS 


SCRIPTURAL   PRAYERS. 


B 


I. 

CONFESSION. 

E  merciful  unto  us,  0  Lord,  for  we  cry  unto  Thee. 
If  Thou,  Lord,  shouldst  mark  iniquities,  0 
Lord,  who  shall  stand  ?  But  there  is  forgiveness  with 
Thee,  that  Thou  majest  be  feared.  Show  us  Thy 
mercy,  0  Lord,  and  grant  us  Thy  salvation.  Enter 
not  into  judgment  with  Thy  servants,  for  in  Thy  sight 
shall  no  man  living  be  justified.  We  acknowledge,  0 
Lord,  our  wickedness.  We  have  sinned,  we  have  com- 
mitted iniquity,  we  have  done  wickedly,  from  our 
youth  even  unto  this  day.  Our  transgressions  are 
multiplied  before  Thee,  and  our  sins  testify  against  us. 
But  with  Thee  there  is  mercy,  and  plenteous  redemp- 
tion. Remember  not  the  sins  of  our  youth,  nor  our 
transgressions :  according  to  Thy  mercy  remember 
Thou  us,  for  Thy  goodness'  sake,  0  Lord.  Cause  us 
to  hear  Thy  loving-kindness ;  cause  us  to  know  the 


262  ScRiPTUKAL   Prayers. 

way  wherein  we  should  walk.  Teach  us  to  do  Thy 
will :  for  Thou  art  our  God.  Hear  Thou  from  heaven 
Thy  dwelling-place^  and  when  ThoTj  hearest,  forgive ! 
Through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord. 

The  Same. 
r\  LORD,  we  do  not  present  our  supplications  before 
^  Thee  for  our  righteousness,  but  for  Thy  great 
mercies.  To  Thee  belong  mercies  and  forgivenesses, 
though  we  have  rebelled  against  Thee,  neither  have 
we  obeyed  Thy  voice,  to  walk  in  Thy  laws.  We  have 
sinned,  and  have  committed  iniquity,  and  have  done 
wickedly,  and  have  rebelled,  by  departing  from  Thy 
precepts,  and  from  Thy  judgments.  0  Lord,  right- 
eousness belongeth  unto  Thee,  but  unto  us  confusion 
of  face.  Now  therefore,  0  God,  incline  Thine  ear, 
and  hear ;  open  Thine  eyes,  and  behold.  Remember 
not  against  us  former  iniquities  :  let  Thy  tender  mer- 
cies speedily  prevent  us.  0  Lord,  hear!  0  Lord, 
forgive  !  Help  us,  0  God  of  our  salvation,  for  the 
glory  of  Thy  Name  ;  and  deliver  and  purge  away  our 
sins,  for  Thy  Name's  sake :  Through  Jesus  Christ  our 
Lord. 


Scriptural  Prayers.  263 

The  Same. 

HAVE  mercy  upon  us,  0  God,  according  to  Thy 
loving-kindness  ;  according  unto  the  multitude  of 
Thy  tender  mercies,  blot  out  our  transgressions.  Wash 
us  thoroughly  from  our  iniquity,  and  cleanse  us  from 
our  sin.  For  we  acknowledge  our  transgressions : 
against  Thee,  Thee  only  have  we  sinned.  Create  in  us 
a  clean  heart,  0  God,  and  renew  a  right  spirit  within 
us.  Cast  us  not  away  from  Thy  presence  ;  and  take 
not  Thy  Holy  Spirit  from  us.  Restore  unto  us  the 
joy  of  Thy  salvation,  and  uphold  us  with  Thy  free 
Spirit.  Then  will  we  teach  transgressors  Thy  ways ; 
and  sinners  shall  be  converted  unto  Thee.  0  Lord, 
open  Thou  our  lips  ;  and  our  mouth  shall  show  forth 
Thy  praise  :  Through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord. 

II. 

ADORATION. 

"pLESSED  be  Thou,  0  Lord  our  God,  for  ever  and 
-*-^  ever  ;  and  blessed  be  Thy  glorious  Name,  which 
is  exalted  above  all  blessing  and  praise.  Thou,  even 
Thou,  art  Lord  alone  :  Thou  hast  made  heaven,  the 
heaven  of  heavens,   with  all  their  host ;    the  earth, 


264  Scriptural  Prayers. 

and  all  things  that  are  therein  ;  the  seas,  and  all  that 
is  therein ;  and  Thou  preservest  them  all ;  and  the 
host  of  heaven  worshippeth  Thee.  0  Lord  of  Hosts, 
God  of  Israel,  that  dwellest  hetween  the  cherubim: 
Thou  art  the  God,  even  Thou  alone,  of  all  the  king- 
doms of  the  earth.  There  is  no  god  like  unto  Thee 
in  the  heaven,  nor  in  the  earth  :  which  keepest  coven- 
ant, and  ^howest  mercy  unto  Thy  servants,  that  walk 
before  Thee  with  all  their  hearts..  Thou  art  a  God 
ready  to  pardon,  gracious  and  merciful,  slow  to  anger, 
and  of  great  kindness. 

The  Same. 
"pLESSED  be  Thou,  Lord  God  of  Israel,  our 
-*-^  Father,  for  ever.  Thine,  0  God,  is  the  great- 
ness, and  the  power,  and  the  glory,  and  the  victory, 
and  the  majesty  :  for  all  that  is  in  the  heaven  and  in 
the  earth  is  Thine :  Thine  is  the  kingdom,  0  Lord, 
and  Thou  art  exalted  as  Head  above  all.  Both  riches 
and  honour  come  of  Thee,  and  Thou  reignest  over 
all ;  and  in  Thine  hand  is  power  and  might,  and  in 
Thine  hand  it  is  to  make  great,  and  to  give  strength 
unto  all.  Now,  therefore,  our  God,  we  thank  Thee, 
and  praise  Thy  glorious  Name. 


Scriptural  Prayers.  265 

The  Same. 
TTOLY,  holy,  holy,  Lord  God  Almighty,  which 
-■--*-  was,  and  is,  and  is  to  come  !  Thou  art  wor- 
thy, 0  Lord,  to  receive  glory  and  honour  and  power: 
for  Thou  hast  created  all  things,  and  for  Thy  pleasure 
they  are  and  were  created. 

Great  and  marvellous  are  Thy  works,  Lord  God 
Almighty ;  just  and  true  are  Thy  ways.  Thou  King 
of  saints.  Who  shall  not  fear  Thee,  0  Lord,  and 
glorify  Thy  Name  ?  For  Thou  only  art  holy.  For 
all  nations  shall  come  and  worship  before  Thee. 

III. 

THANKSGIVINa. 

"DLESSED  be  Thou,  0  God  and  Father  of  our 
-^  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  Who  hast  blessed  us  with 
all  spiritual  blessings  in  heavenly  places  in  Christ : 
according  as  Thou  hast  chosen  us  in  Him  before  the 
foundation  of  the  world,  that  we  should  be  holy  and 
without  blame  before  Thee  in  love  :  and  hast  pre- 
destinated us  unto  the  adoption  of  children  by  Jesus 
Christ  to  Thyself,  according  to  the  good  pleasure  of 
Thy  will.     We  praise  the  glory  of  Thy  grace,  wherein 

Thou  hast  made  us  accepted  in  the  Beloved.      We 
12 


266  Scriptural  Prayers. 

bless  Thee  that  in  Him  we  have  redemption  through 
His  blood,  the  forgiveness  of  sins,  according  to  the 
riches  of  Thy  grace.  We  bless  Thee  for  making 
known  unto  us  the  mystery  of  Thy  will :  that  in  the 
dispensation  of  the  fulness  of  times.  Thou  mightest 
gather  together  in  one  all  things  in  Christ,  both  which 
are  in  heaven  and  which  are  on  earth,  even  in  Him. 
And  we  give  thanks  unto  Thee,  0  Lord  !  for  the  faith 
and  love  of  all  Thy  saints  :  beseeching  Thee  that  they, 
having  heard  the  Gospel  of  their  salvation,  and  trusted 
in  Christ,  may  be  sealed  with  that  Holy  Spirit  of 
Promise,  which  is  the  earnest  of  our  inheritance,  until 
the  redemption  of  the  purchased  possession,  unto  the 
praise  of  Thy  glory. 

The  Same. 
"HLESSED  be  Thou,  0  God  and  Father  of  our 
-^  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  Who  according  to  Thine 
abundant  mercy  hast  begotten  us  again  unto  a  lively 
hope,  by  the  resurrection  of  Jesus  Christ  from  the 
dead,  to  an  inheritance  incorruptible,  and  undefiled, 
and  that  fadeth  not  away  ;  reserved  in  heaven  for  us, 
who  are  kept  by  the  power  of  God  through  faith  unto 
salvation,  ready  to  be  revealed  in  the  last  time. 


Scriptural  Prayers.  267 

IV. 

SUPPLICATION. 
A  Prayer  for  Wisdom. 
r\  GOD  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  the  Father  of 
^^  Grlorj,  give  unto  us  the  Spirit  of  wisdom  and 
revelation  in  the  knowledge  of  Him :  that  the  eyes 
of  our  understanding  may  be  enlightened;  that  we 
may  know  what  is  the  hope  of  His  callings  and  what 
the  riches  of  the  glory  of  His  inheritance  in  the 
saints;  and  what  the  exceeding  greatness  of  Thy 
power  to  US-ward  who  believe,  according  to  its  mighty 
working  in  Christ,  when  Thou  didst  raise  Him  from 
the  dead,  and  settest  Him  at  Thine  own  right  hand  in 
the  heavenly  places,  far  above  all  principality,  and 
power,  and  might,  and  dominion,  and  every  name  that 
is  named,  not  only  in  this  world,  but  also  in  that  which 
is  to  come :  and  hast  put  all  things  under  His  feet, 
and  gavest  Him  to  be  the  Head  over  all  things  to  the 
Church,  which  is  His  Body,  the  fulness  of  Him  that 
fiUeth  all  in  all. 


0 


Par  Sjjiritual  Strength. 
FATHER  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  of  Whom 
the  whole  Family  in  heaven  and  earth  is  named : 


268  Scriptural  Prayers. 

We  bow  our  knees  unto  Thee,  beseeching  Thee  that 
Thou  wouldst  grant  us,  according  to  the  riches  of 
Thy  glory,  to  be  strengthened  with  might  by  Thy  Spirit 
in  the  inner  man  :  That  Christ  may  dwell  in  our 
hearts  by  faith ;  that  we,  being  rooted  and  grounded 
in  love,  may  be  able  to  comprehend  with  all  saints, 
what  is  the  breadth,  and  length,  and  depth,  and  height, 
and  to  know  the  love  of  Christ,  that  passeth  knowl- 
edge ;  that  we  may  be  filled  with  all  the  fulness  of 
God.  Now  unto  Him  that  is  able  to  do  exceeding 
abundantly  above  all  that  we  ask  or  think,  according 
to  the  power  that  worketh  in  us,  unto  Him  be  glory 
in  the  Church  by  Christ  Jesus  throughout  all  ages, 
world  without  end.     Amen. 


For  a  Good  Judgment. 

A  LMIGHTY  God,  we  pray  Thee,  that  the  love  of 
-^•*-  all  Thy  People  may  abound  yet  more  and  more, 
in  knowledge  and  in  all  judgment :  that  they  may  ap- 
prove things  that  are  excellent ;  that  they  may  be 
sincere  and  without  ofience  till  the  day  of  Christ; 
being  filled  with  the  fruits  of  righteousness,  which  are 
by  Jesus  Christ,  unto  the  glory  and  praise  of  God. 


Scriptural  Prayers.  269 

For  Assurance. 
r\  RANT,  Almighty  God,  that  the  hearts  of  Thy 
^  People  may  be  comforted,  being  knit  together  in 
love,  and  unto  all  riches  of  the  full  assurance  of  un- 
derstanding, to  the  acknowledgment  of  the  mystery  of 
God,  and  of  the  Father,  and  of  Christ,  in  Whom  are 
hid  all  the  treasures  of  wisdom  and  knowledge. 

For  Hope. 

r\  GOD  of  Hope,  fill  us  with  all  joy  and  peace  in 
^-^  believing,  that  we  may  abound  in  hope,  through 
the  power  of  the  Holy  Ghost. 

For  Faith  and  Charity. 
r\  GOD,  we  render  thanks  unto  Thee  for  the  faith 
^  and  charity  of  Thy  People,  and  for  all  tjie  joy 
wherewith  we  joy  for  their  sakes  before  Thee.  And 
we  pray  Thee  to  perfect  that  which  is  lacking  in  their 
faith.  Make  them  to  increase  and  abound  in  love  one 
toward  another,  and  toward  all  men  :  to  the  end  that 
Thou  mayest  stablish  their  hearts  unblameable  in  holi- 
ness before  God,  even  our  Father,  at  the  coming  of 
our  Lord  Jesus  Christ  with  all  His  saints.     0  Thou 


270  Scriptural  Praters. 

very  God  of  peace,  sanctify  them  wholly ;  and  may 
their  whole  spirit  and  soul  and  body  be  preserved 
blameless  unto  the  coming  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ : 
To  Whom  be  glory  for  ever  and  ever.     Amen. 

For  Grace  to  do  Good  Works, 
r\  GOD  of  Peace,  that  broughtest  again  from  the 
^  dead  our  Lord  Jesus,  that  great  Shepherd  of  the 
sheep,  through  the  blood  of  the  everlasting  Covenant, 
make  us  perfect  in  every  good  work  to  do  Thy  will, 
working  in  us  that  which  is  well-pleasing  in  Thy 
sight,  through  Jesus  Christ :  To  Whom  be  glory  for 
ever  and  ever.     Amen. 

For  Perseverance. 
r\  OD  of  all  Grace,  Who  hast  called  us  unto  Thine 
^  eternal  glory  by  Christ  Jesus,  after  that  w^e  have 
suffered  a  while,  make  us  perfect,  stablish,  strengthen, 
settle  us ;  that  God  in  all  things  may  be  glorified 
through  Jesus  Christ :  To  Whom  be  praise  and  domi- 
nion for  ever  and  ever.     Amen. 


0 


For  Unity. 
GOD  of  Patience  and  Consolation,  grant  us  to  be 
like-minded   one    toward  another  according   to 


ScRiPTUEAL  Prayers.  271 

Jesus  Christ :  that  we  may  with  one  mind  and  one 
mouth  glorify  Thee,  even  the  Father  of  our  Lord 
Jesus  Christ. 

For  Increase  of  Grace. 
A  LMIGHTY  God,  we  thank  Thee  for  Thy  grace 
-^-*-  which  is  given  us  by  Christ  Jesus  :  beseeching 
Thee  that  in  every  thing  we  may  be  enriched  by  Him, 
in  all  utterance  and  in  all  knowledge,  so  that  we  come 
behind  in  no  gift :  waiting  for  the  revelation  of  our 
Lord  Jesus  Christ,  Who  shall  also  confirm  us  unto  the 
end,  that  we  may  be  blameless  in  that  day.  Thou  art 
faithful,  0  God,  by  Whom  we  were  called  unto  the 
fellowship  of  Thy  Son  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord :  To 
Whom  be  glory  for  ever  and  ever.     Amen. 

For  Deliverance  from  Sin. 

r\  GOD,  we  thank  Thee  that  we,  who  were  the  ser- 
^^  vants  of  sin,  have  obeyed  from  the  heart  that 
form  of  doctrine  which  was  delivered  us :  and  being 
now  made  free  from  sin,  and  become  servants  to  God, 
may  we  have  our  fruit  uiito  holiness,  and  the  end 
everlasting  life  :  Through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord. 


272  Scriptural  Prayers. 


For  Patience. 
TvIRECT  our  hearts,  0  Lord,  into  the  love  of  God, 
•^     and  into  the  patience  of  Christ. 


0 


For  Peace. 
LORD  of  Peace,    give  us  peace  always  by  all 


means. 


For  Stedfastness. 
r\  GOD,  Who  hast  from  the  beginning  chosen  us  to 
^^  salvation,  through  sanctification  of  the  Spirit, 
and  belief  of  the  truth  :  Grant  us  grace  to  stand  fast, 
and  hold  the  traditions  which  we  have  been  taught,  to 
the  obtaining  of  the  glory  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ. 
0  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  and  God,  even  our  Father,  Who 
Thyself  hast  loved  us,  and  hast  given  us  everlasting 
consolation,  and  good  hope  through  grace  :  Comfort 
our  hearts,  and  stablish  us  in  every  good  word  and 
work  :  that  we  may  stand  perfect  and  complete  in  all 
the  will  of  God. 


? 


For  Sanctification. 
OUCHSAFE,  0  our  God,  we  pray  Thee,  to  count 
us  worthy  of   Thy  calling,   and  fulfil  all  the 


Scriptural  Prayers.  273 

good  pleasure  of  Thj  goodness,  and  the  work  of  faith 
with  power  :  that  the  Name  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ 
may  be  glorified  in  us,  and  we  in  Him,  according  to 
the  grace  of  our  God  and  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ. 

For  Spiritual  Comfort. 
"DLESSED  be  Thou,  0  God,  even  the  Father  of  our 
-^     Lord  Jesus  Christ,  the  Father  of  mercies,  and 
the  God  of  all  comfort,  Who  comfortest  us  in  all  our 


tribulation,  that  we  maybe  able  to  comfort  them  which 
are  in  any  trouble,  by  the  comfort  wherewith  we  our- 
selves are  comforted  of  Thee.  And  as  the  sufferings 
of  Christ  abound  in  us,  so  may  our  consolation  also 
abound  by  Christ :  that  as  we  are  partakers  of  the 
sufferings^  so  we  may  be  also  of  the  consolation.  De- 
liver us,  0  God,  in  Whom  we  trust,  and  grant  us  the 
testimony  of  a  good  conscience,  that  in  simplicity  and 
godly  sincerity,  not  with  fleshly  wisdom,  but  by  Thy 
grace,  we  may  have  our  conversation  in  the  world. 
Thanks  be  unto  Thee,  0  God,  Who  always  causest  us 
to  triumph  in  Christ,  and  makest  manifest  the  savour 
of  Thy  knowledge  by  us  in  every  place. 


12* 


274  Scriptural  Prayers. 

V. 

INTERCESSION. 

For  the  Universal  Church, 
r\  GOD  and  Father  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  we 
^  give  Thee  thanks  for  all  Thy  saints  our  faithful 
brethren  in  Christ :  desiring  that  thej  might  be  filled 
with  the  knowledge  of  Thy  will,  in  all  wisdom  and 
spiritual  understanding  ;  that  they  might  walk  worthy 
of  the  Lord  unto  all  pleasing,  being  fruitful  in  every 
good  work,  and  increasing  in  the  knowledge  of  God. 
Strengthen  them  with  all  might,  according  to  Thy 
glorious  power,  unto  all  patience  and  long-suffering 
with  joyfulness.  May  they  ever  give  thanks  unto 
Thee,  0  Father,  Who  hast  made  us  meet  to  be  par- 
takers of  the  inheritance  of  the  saints  in  light ;  Who 
hast  delivered  us  from  the  power  of  darkness,  and  hast 
translated  us  into  the  kingdom  of  Thy  dear  Son : 
in  Whom  we  have  redemption  through  His  blood,  even 
the  forgiveness  of  sins. 

For  all  Classes  of  Men. 
r\  GOD  our  Saviour,  who  wouldest  have  all  men  to 
^^     be  saved,  and  to  come  to  the  knowledge  of  the 
truth :  Let  Thy  way  be  known  upon  the  earth,  Thy 


Scriptural  Prayers.  275 

saving  health  unto  all  nations.  Let  the  kingdoms  of 
this  world  become  the  kingdoms  of  the  Lord  and  of 
His  Christ.  We  pray  for  kings,  and  for  all  that  are 
in  authority  ;  that  we  may  lead  a  quiet  and  peaceable 
life  in  all  godliness  and  honesty.  And  we  beseech 
Thee  for  Thy  servants,  who  in  every  place  make  mani- 
fest the  savour  of  Thy  knowledge,  preaching  among 
the  nations  the  unsearchable  riches  of  Christ.  Supply 
them  with  Thy  Spirit ;  open  unto  them  doors  of  utter- 
ance, to  make  known  the  mystery  of  the  Gospel ;  de- 
liver them  from  unreasonable  and  wicked  men ;  and 
may  the  Word  of  the  Lord  every  where  have  free 
course  and  be  glorified,  even  as  it  is  with  us.  0  Lord 
of  the  harvest,  send  forth  labourers  into  Thy  har- 
vest. 

VI. 
ASCRIPTIONS  OP  PRAISE. 

1VT0W  to  God  only  Wise  be  glory  through  Jesus 
-^^      Christ  for  ever.     Amen. 

Now  unto  the  King  Eternal,  Immortal,  Invisible, 
the  only  Wise  God,  be  honour  and  glory  for  ever  and 
ever.     Amen. 

Now  to  the  blesged  and  only  Potentate,  the  King  of 
kings,  and  Lord  of  lords  :  Who  only  hath  immortal- 


276  Scriptural  Prayers. 

itjr,  dwelling  in  the  light  which  no  man  can  approach 
unto ;  Whom  no  man  hath  seen,  nor  can  see  :  To  Him 
be  honour  and  power  everlasting.     Amen. 

Now  unto  Him  that  is  able  to  keep  us  from  falling, 
and  to  present  us  faultless  before  the  presence  of  His 
glory  with  exceeding  joy :  To  the  only  Wise  God  our 
Saviour,  be  glory  and  majesty,  dominion  and  power, 
both  now  and  ever.     Amen. 

Of  Him,  and  through  Him,  and  to  Him,  are  all 
things  :  To  Whom  be  glory  for  ever.     Amen* 

Salvation,  and  glory,  and  honour,  and  power,  unto 
the  Lord  our  God. 

To  Whom  be  glory  for  ever  and  ever.     Amen. 

To  Him  be  glory,  both  now  and  for  ever.     Amen. 

Unto  Him  that  loved  us,  and  washed  us  from  our 
sins  in  His  own  blood,  and  hath  made  us  kings  and 
priests  unto  God  and  His  Father :  To  Him  be  glory 
and  dominion  for  ever  and  ever.     Amen. 

Worthy  is  the  Lamb  that  was  slain  to  receive  power, 
and  riches,  and  wisdom,  and  strength,  and  honour,  and 
glory,  and  blessing.     Amen. 

Blessing,  and  glory,  and  wisdom,  and  thanksgiving, 
and  honour,  and  power,  and  mightj^be  unto  our  God, 
for  ever  and  ever.     Amen. 


Scriptural  Prayers.  277 

■  Blessing,  and  honour,  and  glory,  and  power,  be 
unto  Him  that  sitteth  upon  the  throne,  and  unto  the 
Lamb  for  ever  and  ever.     Amen. 

Salvation  to  our  God,  which  sitteth  upon  the  throne, 
and  unto  the  Lamb. 

To  Him  be  glory  and  dominion  for  ever  and  ever. 
Amen. 


COMPREHENSIVE    PRAYER 


IN   THE    WORDS    OF   SCRIPTURE. 


ADORATION. 

r\  GOD,  Thou  art  our  God.  early  will  we  seek 
^  Thee ;  our  God,  and  we  will  praise  Thee ;  our 
fathers'  God,  and  we  will  exalt  Thee.  Thou  art  very 
great,  clothed  with  honour  and  majesty.  Thou  cover- 
est  Thyself  with  light  as  with  a  garment ;  and  in  Thee 
is  no  darkness  at  all. 

Thou  art  God  Thyself  alone ;  and,  besides  Thee, 
there  is  none  else.  The  heavens  declare  Thy  glory, 
and  the  firmament  showeth  forth  Thy  handy  work. 
The  invisible  things  of  God,  from  the  creation  of  the 
world,  are  clearly  seen,  being  understood  by  the  things 
that  are  made,  even  Thine  eternal  power  and  God-head. 

Thou  art  transcendently  great  in  all  Thy  perfec- 
tions.   Thou  art  glorious  in  holiness,  fearful  in  praises, 


A  Comprehensive   Prayer.     279 

doing  wonders.  Who,  in  the  heavens,  can  be  compared 
unto  the  Lord  ?  Who,  among  the  sons  of  the  mighty, 
can  be  likened  unto  Thee,  0  Lord  God  of  hosts  ?  As 
the  heavens  are  high  above  the  earth,  so  are  Thy 
thoughts  above  our  thoughts,  and  Thy  ways  above  our 
ways.  All  nations,  before  Thee,  are  as  the  drop  of  a 
bucket,  or  the  small  dust  of  the  balance ;  and  Thou 
takest  up  the  isles  as  a  very  little  thing  :  they  are  as 
nothing,  and  counted  to  Thee  as  less  than  nothing,  and 
as  vanity. 

Thou  art  the  eternal,  immortal,  and  unchangeable 
God.  Before  the  mountains  were  brought  forth,  or 
ever  Thou  hadst  formed  the  earth  and  the  world,  from 
everlasting  to  everlasting  Thou  art  God,  the  same  yes- 
terday, to-day,  and  for  ever. 

Thou  art  the  omnipresent  God.  None  can  hide 
himself  in  secret  places,  that  Thou  canst  not  see 
him,  for  Thou  fillest  heaven  and  earth  with  Thy 
presence. 

Thou  art  the  omniscient  Jehovah.  All  things  are 
naked  and  opened  unto  the  eyes  of  Him  with  whom 
we  have  to  do.  Thou  understandest  our  thoughts  afar 
off:  there  is  not  a  word  in  our  tongue,  but  lo  1  0 
Lord,  Thou  knowest  it  altogether. 


280     A  Comprehensive   Prayer. 

Thy  wisdom  is  unsearchable.  Thine  understanding, 
0  Lord,  is  infinite.  Thou  tellest  the  number  of  the 
stars,  and  callest  them  all  by  their  names.  Thou  art 
wonderful  in  council,  excellent  in  working,  wise  in 
heart,  and  mighty  in  strength.  0  the  depth  of  the 
wisdom  and  knowledge  of  God  !  how  unsearchable  are 
His  judgments,  and  His  ways  past  finding  out ! 

Thy  sovereignty  is  incontestable.  Thou  dost  ac- 
cording to  Thy  will,  in  the  armies  of  heaven,  and 
among  the  inhabitants  of  the  earth,  and  none  can  stay 
Thy  hand,  or  say  unto  Thee,  What  doest  Thou  ? 

.Thy  power  is  irresistible.  We  know,  0  God,  that 
Thou  canst  do  every  thing.  All  power  is  Thine,  both 
in  heaven  and  in  earth  :  Thou  killest,  and  Thou  makest 
alive  :  Thou  woundest,  and  Thou  healest :  and  there 
is  none  that  can  deliver  out  of  Thy  hand. 

Thou  art  a  God  of  unspotted  purity  and  perfect 
rectitude.  Thou  art  holy,  0  Thou  that  inhabitest  the 
praises  of  Israel.  Holy  and  reverend  is  Thy  Name ; 
and  we  give  thanks  at  the  remembrance  of  Thy  holi- 
ness. Thou  art  of  purer  eyes  than  to  behold  iniquity  ; 
neither  shall  evil  dwell  with  Thee. 

Thy  justice  is  inflexible,  Thy  truth  inviolable,  and 
the  treasures  of  Thy  goodness  inexhaustible.     Thou 


Adoration.  281 

art  righteous,  0  Lord,  in  all  Thy  ways,  and  holy  in  all 
Thy  works.  Thy  righteousness  is  as  the  great  moun- 
tains :  all  Thy  ways  are  truth  and  judgment.  Thou 
art  good,  and  Thy  mercy  endureth  for  ever.  Thy  lov- 
ing kindness  is  great  towards  us,  and  Thy  truth  en- 
dureth to  all  generations.  Thou  hast  proclaimed  Thy 
Name,  the  Lord,  the  Lord  God,  merciful  and  gracious, 
slow  to  anger,  abundant  in  goodness  and  truth,  keep- 
ing mercy  for  thousands,  forgiving  iniquity,  transgres- 
sion, and  sin. 

These,  0  Lord,  are  but  part  of  Thy  ways ;  for  who 
by  searching  can  find  out  God  ?  who  can  find  out  the 
Almighty  to  perfection  ? 

We  praise  Thee  as  a  God  of  inefiable  glory.  Thou 
hast  prepared  Thy  throne  in  the  heavens ;  and  the 
Seraphim  veil  their  faces  before  Thee.  Thou  makest 
Thine  angels  spirits,  and  Thy  ministers  a  flame  of  fire : 
Thousand  thousands  minister  unto  Thee,  and  ten 
thousand  times  ten  thousand  stand  before  Thee.  Thou 
art  worthy,  0  Lord,  to  receive  blessing,  and  honour, 
and  glory,  and  power ;  for  Thou  hast  created  all 
things,  and  for  Thy  pleasure  they  are  and  were  creat- 
ed. The  earth  is  full  of  Thy  riches ;  Thy  kingdom 
ruleth  over  all :    a  sparrow  falls  not  to  the  ground 


282     A  Comprehensive  Prayer. 

without  our  Father  ;  and  the  hairs  of  our  head  are  all 
numbered. 

Thou  madest  man  at  first  out  of  the  dust  of  the 
ground,  and  didst  breathe  into  him  the  breath  of  life, 
and  he  became  a  living  soul.  Thou  hast  made  of  one 
blood  all  the  nations  of  men,  for  to  dwell  on  all  the 
face  of  the  earth,  and  hast  determined  the  times  be- 
fore appointed,  and  the  bounds  of  their  habitation. 

We  adore  Thee,  as  the  one  living  and  true  God, 
the  Father,  the  Word,  and  the  Holy  Ghost.  We  give 
honour  to  the  Son  as  to  the  Father ;  and  to  the  Com- 
forter, the  Holy  Spirit,  who  is  sent  to  teach  us  all 
things,  and  to  bring  all  things  to  our  remembrance. 
We  praise  Thee,  0  Father,  Son,  and  Holy  Ghost,  the 
Creator,  the  Redeemer,  and  the  Sanctifier.  Thou 
hast  made  us,  and  not  we  ourselves ;  and  therefore  we 
are  not  our  own,  but  Thine,  Thy  people,  and  the 
sheep  of  Thy  pasture.  In  Thee  we  live,  and  move, 
and  have  our  being.  Thou  hast  redeemed  us  from 
evil.  We  are  bought  with  a  price.  It  is  of  Thy 
mercy  that  we  are  not  consumed,  even  because  Thy 
compassions  fail  not.  Thou  hast  appointed  us  a  High 
Priest,  in  Whose  Name  we  may  come  boldly  to  the 
throne  of  grace.  We  make  mention  of  the  righteous- 
ness of  Christ,  and  of  His  only. 


Confession.  283 

confession. 
11 /TOST  merciful  God,  we  come  unto  Thee,  in  hum- 
-^^-*-  ble  dependence. upon  Bis  atonement  and  inter- 
cession, and  confess  our  sins,  which  are  many  and 
great.  Against  Thee,  Thee  only,  have  we  sinned,  0 
God:  and  to  us  belongeth  shame  and  confusion  of 
face.  Behold,  we  are  vile;  what  shall  we  answer 
Thee  ?  We  will  lay  our  hand  upon  our  mouth.  Thou 
puttest  no  trust  in  Thy  saints ;  yea,  the  heavens  are 
not  clean  in  Thy  sight.  How  much  more  abominable 
and  filthy  is  man,  who  drinketh  iniquity  like  water  ? 
"We  have  ruined  ourselves  :  but  in  Thee  is  our  help. 
If  Thou,  Lord,  shouldst  mark  iniquities,  0  Lord,  who 
should  stand?  But  there  is  forgiveness  with  Thee, 
that  Thou  mayest  be  feared :  with  Thee  there  is  mer- 
cy :  yea,  with  our  God  there  is  plenteous  redemption. 
0  Lord,  Thou  madest  man  upright,  but  he  hath 
sought  out  many  inventions.  Our  first  parents  re- 
belled against  Thee ;  and  we  are  transgressors  from 
the  womb.  "We  are  a  seed  of  evil  doers.  "We  have 
dealt  very  treacherously.  By  one  man's  disobedience, 
many  were  made  sinners.  By  one  man  sin  entered 
into  the  world,  and  death  by  sin  ;  and  so  death  passed 
upon  all  men,  for  that  all  have  sinned.     Behold,  we 


284       A    COMPEEHENSIVE    PHAYEK. 

were  shapen  in  iniquity.  We  are  by  nature  children 
of  wrath,  even  as  others.  All  flesh  have  corrupted 
their  way ;  we  are  all  gone  aside ;  we  are  altogether 
become  filthy  ;  there  is  none  righteous ;  there  is  none 
that  doeth  good  ;  no,  not  one. 

Our  understandings  are  darkened  by  reason  of  sin ; 
our  wills  are  stubborn  and  perverse ;  and  our  affections 
are  alienated  from  Thee.  We  are  wise  to  do  evil,  but 
to  good  we  have  no  knowledge.  Our  neck  hath  been 
an  iron  sinew ;  and  we  have  made  our  hearts  as  the 
adamant.  We  have  followed  after  vanities,  and  for- 
saken our  mercies.  We  have  set  our  affections  on 
things  beneath;  and  our  hearts  have  departed  from 
the  living  God.  We  are  prone  to  evil  as  the  sparks 
fly  upward.  Our  hearts  are  deceitful  above  all  things, 
and  desperately  wicked.  0  Lord,  we  lament  our  ir- 
regular appetites,  and  inordinate  passions.  We  bewail 
our  pride,  our  carnality,  and  worldly-mindedness.  Our 
sins  are  attended  with  exceedingly  great  aggravations. 
We  have  sinned  against  the  clearest  light,  the  tender- 
est  love,  and  the  most  faithful  warnings  of  God,  of 
parents,  of  ministers,  and  of  our  own  consciences. 
And  now,  0  Lord,  what  shall  we  say  ?  For  we  have 
forsaken     Thy    commandments :     we     have     sinned, 


Supplication.  285 

what  shall  we  do  unto  Thee,  0  Thou  Preserver  of 
men? 

Glory,  glorj  to  Thy  Name  in  the  highest,  that 
there  is  any  hope  for  the  lost  and  sinful  children  of 
men;  that  Thou  hast  entertained  purposes  of  mercy 
towards  any  of  the  guilty  race ;  that  the  joyful  sound 
of  peace  and  reconciliation  with  God  hath  reached  our 
ears.  We  thank  Thee  that  Thou  hast  so  loved  the 
world  as  to  give  Thine  Only  Begotten  Son,  that  who- 
soever believeth  in  Him  should  not  perish,  but  have 
everlasting  life. 

SUPPLICATION. 

TN  the  all-prevailing  Name  of  Jesus  of  Nazareth,  a 
-*-  Name  with  which  Thou  art  ever  well  pleased,  we 
present  our  prayers  and  supplications  to  Thee.  And 
now,  Lord,  what  wait  we  for  ?  Our  eyes  are  unto  Thee, 
and  our  hope  is  in  Thee,  through  Christ  Jesus  our 
Redeemer.  Deliver  us  from  all  our  transgressions ; 
and,  0  God,  be  merciful  to  us  sinners.  Wash  us 
thoroughly  from  our  iniquity,  and  cleanse  us  from  our 
sin.  For  vfe  acknowledge  our  transgressions  :  and  our 
sin  is  ever  before  us.  Justify  us  freely  by  Thy  grace, 
through  the  redemption  that  is  in  Christ  Jesus  our 
Lord. 


286        A   Comprehensive  Prayer 

Create  in  us  a  clean  heart,  0  God,  and  renew  a 
right  spirit  within  us.  Work  in  us  the  work  of  faith 
with  power.  Dispose  us  to  a  godly  sorrow  for  our 
sins,  and  give  us  repentance  unto  life.  Shed  abroad 
Thy  love  in  our  hearts  by  the  Holy  Ghost  given  unto 
us.  Teach  us  Thy  statutes,  and  give  us  understand- 
ing that  we  may  know  Thy  testimonies.  May  we 
know  God  and  Jesus  Christ,  whom  to  know  is  eternal 
life.  Put  Thy  fear,  0  Lord,  into  our  hearts,  that  we 
may  never  depart  from  Thy  law.  Hide  pride  from 
our  eyes,  and  clothe  us  with  humility.  Enable  us  to 
put  on  the  ornament  of  a  meek  and  quiet  spirit.  0 
God  of  peace,  let  not  anger  dwell  in  our  bosoms.  Fill 
us  with  charity  and  brotherly  love,  that  we  may  keep 
the  unity  of  the  Spirit  in  the  bond  of  peace.  May 
our  consciences  be  always  tender.  May  we  abstain 
from  all  appearance  of  evil.  Incline  us  to  content- 
ment with  the  allotments  of  Thy  providence ;  and 
form  us  to  submission  and  resignation  to  Thy  will. 
May  we  ever  possess  our  souls  in  patience ;  and  feel 
a  holy  indifference  to  all  the  objects  of  time  and 
sense.  0  Lord,  furnish  us  with  hope,  which  maketh 
not  ashamed ;  that  living  hope,  which  is  as  an  anchor 
to  the  soul,  both  sure  and  stedfast. 


Supplication.  287 

Enable  us,  0  Lord,  to  be  circumspect  in  all  our 
conversation,  watching  over  our  thoughts,  our  lips, 
and  our  lives.  May  the  grace  of  God  teach  us,  that 
denying  ungodliness  and  worldly  lusts,  we  may  live 
soberly,  righteously,  and  godly  in  this  present  world  : 
looking  for  that  blessed  hope,  and  the  glorious  appear- 
ing of  that  great  God,  and  our  Saviour  Jesus  Christ ; 
Who  gave  Himself  for  us,  that  He  might  redeem  us 
from  all  iniquity,  and  purify  unto  Himself  a  peculiar 
people,  zealous  of  good  works.  Lord,  quicken  us  in 
the  ways  of  righteousness.  Let  us  ever  practise  the 
things  which  are  honest  in  the  sight  of  all  men. 
May  we  be  diligent  in  every  duty,  performing  it  with 
a  ready  mind  and  with  joy  and  gladness  of  heart. 
May  we  have  grace  always  to  live  in  the  exercise  of 
devotion  and  piety  towards  God ;  of  truth,  charity, 
and  righteousness  towards  men ;  and  to  maintain 
chastity,  temperance,  and  sobriety  towards  ourselves. 
Grant  that  we  may  increase  in  all  godliness  ;  that  we 
may  grow  in  grace,  and  in  the  knowledge  of  our  Lord 
and  Saviour  Jesus  Christ. 

0  Lord,  Who  art  the  confidence  of  all  the  ends  of 
the  earth,  preserve  us  from  temptation ;  support  us 
under  afflictions  ;  comfort  us  in  sorrows  ;  make  us  use- 


288        A  Comprehensive   Prayer. 

ful  in  life,  and  prepare  us  for  death  :  And  when  we 
have  done  serving  Thee  here  below,  admit  us,  we 
beseech  Thee,  to  that  state  of  rest  and  perfection 
which  Thou  hast  reserved  for  Thy  people  in  the 
heavenly  world. 

THANKSGIVING. 

A  ND  now,  0  Lord  our  God,  we  desire  to  lift  up  our 
■^^  hearts  to  Thee,  in  a  grateful  acknowledgement 
of  all  Thy  mercies  and  benefits  to  us.  We  praise 
Thee,  as  the  King  of  kings  and  Lord  of  lords,  full  of 
compassion  and  goodness  to  the  children  of  men. 
We  thank  Thee  that  Thou  hast  formed  us  reasonable 
creatures,  capable  of  knowing,  serving,  and  enjoying 
Thee.  We  bless  Thee  for  Thy  preserving  care ;  for 
our  lives,  our  health,  our  food  and  raiment ;  for  our 
friends,  our  comforts,  and  all  our  temporal  enjoy- 
ments. Above  all,  we  praise  Thee,  0  most  merciful 
Father,  for  spiritual  blessings  in  heavenly  places  in 
Christ  Jesus. 

We  thank  Thee,  0  Lord,  for  the  early  intimations 
of  good-will  to  fallen  men ;  that  the  seed  of  the  wo- 
man should  bruise  the  serpent's  head.  We  adore 
Thee  for  the  wonderful  and  mysterious  incarnation  of 


•    *      Thanksgiving.  289 

Thine  Only-begotten  Son.  We  praise  Thee,  that 
when  the  fulness  of  time  was  come,  Thou  didst  send 
forth  Thy  Son,  made  of  a  woman,  made  under  the 
law,  to  redeem  them  that  were  under  the  law,  that 
we  might  receive  the  adoption  of  sons.  We  thank 
Thee  for  His  gracious  undertaking ;  for  His  exem- 
plary life ;  His  soul-saving  doctrines ;  for  the  stu- 
pendous miracles  whereby  He  confirmed  His  divine 
mission ;  and,  in  a  special  manner,  for  His  meritorious 
death  and  sufferings.  We  bless  Thee  that  He  was 
delivered  for  our  offences,  and  rose  again  for  our 
justification ;  that  He  hath  ascended  to  His  Father 
and  our  Father,  to  His  God  and  our  God ;  and  that 
He  ever  liveth  to  make  intercession  for  us. 

We  thank  Thee,  0  Lord  God  of  grace,  for  the 
Holy  Spirit,  and  for  His  sanctifying  and  comforting 
influences  upon  the  souls  of  men ;  for  the  Covenant 
of  grace  and  all  the  precious  promises  thereof;  for 
Thy  Word ;  for  the  Gospel  Ministry,  and  the  insti- 
tution of  all  Thine  Ordinances  ;  for  Sabbaths ;  and 
for  Sanctuary  blessings.  We  praise  Thee  for  the 
striving  of  Thy  Spirit,  and  for  the  remonstrances  and 
admonitions  of  our  consciences  ;  for  enlightening,  re- 
newing, justifying,  adopting,  and  sanctifying  grace  ; 
13 


290  A    COMPKEHENSIVE    PrAYER. 

for  sweet  communion  with  Thee  in  Thine  ordinances  ; 
for  gracious  answers  to  Our  prayers ;  for  succour  in 
temptations  ;  for  support  under  troubles ;  and  for  the 
joyful  hopes  of  a  glorious  immortality. 

INTERCESSION. 

IVTOW,  0  Thou  Most  High,  when  we  pray  unto 
-*-'  Thee,  we  would  remember  and  make  supplication 
for  all  the  children  of  men.  Extend,  we  beseech  Thee, 
Thy  mercy  to  a  guilty  world  ;  and  let  all  the  ends  of 
the  earth  see  the  salvation  of  our  God.  Let  Thy  Gos- 
pel be  preached  unto  every  creature  ;  and  add  unto 
Thy  Church  daily  such  as  shall  be  saved.  Give  unto 
Thy  Son  the  heathen  for  His  inheritance,  and  the 
uttermost  parts  of  the  earth  for  His  possession.  0 
Lord,  gather  into  the  Gospel  Church  Thine  ancient 
people  the  Jews  :  hasten  the  latter-day  glory :  accom- 
plish all  the  purposes  of  Thy  grace :  remove  every 
thing  which  is  a  let  or  hindrance  to  the  advancement 
of  the  Redeemer's  Kingdom  :  take  away  all  error  and 
idolatry,  anti-christian  superstition,  and  Mohammedan 
delusion. 

We  pray  for  Thy  blessing  upon  Thy  Church  Uni- 
versal, and  upon  every  branch  of  it  in  particular,     0 


Intercession.  291 

Lord,  pitj  any  part  of  Thy  Church  that  may  be 
suffering  affliction  or  persecution.  Let  not  the  rod 
of  the  wicked  rest  upon  the  lot  of  the  righteous ; 
strengthen  the  faith  and  patience  of  Thy  suffering 
saints,  that  they  may  hope  and  quietly  wait  for  the 
salvation  of  the  Lord.  Pour  out  Thy  Spirit  upon  all 
Thy  Churches ;  revive  Thy  work  in  the  midst  of  the 
years ;  cause  pure  and  undefiled  religion  universally 
to  prevail ;  arise,  have  mercy  upon  Zion,  and  let  the 
time  to  favour  her,  yea,  the  set  time,  come. 

Heavenly  Father,  do  Thou  bless  all  the  Ministers 
of  Thy  Gospel ;  purify  the  sons  of  Levi,  and  make 
those  holy  who  bear  the  vessels  of  the  Lord  \  make 
them  burning  and  shining  lights  in  Thy  golden  candle- 
sticks ;  and  may  they  turn  many  to  righteousness,  and 
shine  as  stars  in  the  firmament  of  glory  for  ever  and  ever. 

0  Lord,  we  pray  for  Thy  special  favour  to  Thy 
Churches  in  this  land.  Be  very  gracious  to  all  the 
Congregations  and  Ministers  of  this  Church.  Bless 
our  Presbyteries,  our  Synods,  and  our  General  Coun- 
cil. May  their  deliberations  at  all  times  have  a  happy 
tendency  to  promote  true  religion,  and  to  advance 
more  and  more  the  interests  of  the  Redeemer's  King- 
dom.    Make  all  our  people  holy  in  their  lives,  and 


292        A  Comprehensive  Prayer. 

godlj  in  their  conversation.  May  they  be  an  orna- 
ment to  their  profession ;  and  may  our  Church  be  a 
praise  in  the  land. 

0  Thou,  who  art  King  among  the  nations,  visit  all 
the  nations  and  kingdoms  of  the  earth  with  Thy  good- 
ness, Thy  mercy,  and  Thy  salvation.  Deal  favourably, 
0  Lord,  with  the  land  in  which  we  live.  0  Thou 
hope  of  Israel,  the  Saviour  thereof  in  time  of  trouble, 
be  not  as  a  stranger  in  our  land,  and  as  a  way-faring 
man,  that  tumeth  aside  to  tarry  for  a  night.  Make 
this  Emmanuel's  land.  May  it  be  a  valley  of  vision, 
a  land  wherein  truth,  peace,  and  righteousness  shall 
always  dwell. 

Give,  0  Lord,  we  entreat  Thee,  prosperity  to  the 
inhabitants  of  this  country,  in  their  husbandry,  their 
trades,  and  their  merchandize.  Make  not  our  heaven 
brass,  nor  our  earth  iron ;  but  grant  us,  we  pray  Thee, 
rain  in  due  season;  and  reserve  unto  us  the  appointed 
weeks  of  harvest.  Let  our  land  yield  her  increase, 
and  our  trees  their  fruit.  Abundantly  bless  our  pro- 
vision, and  satisfy  our  poor  with  bread.  0  Lord, 
bless  all  in  authority  over  us,  supreme  and  subordinate. 
Counsel  our  counsellors,  and  teach  our  senators  wis- 
dom.   Make  our  officers  peace,  and  our  exactors  right- 


Intercession.  293 

eousness.  May  all  our  magistrates  and  rulers  rule 
in  the  fear  of  God,  be  able  men,  men  of  truth,  fearing 
God,  and  hating  covetousness.  May  judgment  run 
down  as  waters,  and  righteousness  as  a  mighty  stream. 

0  Lord,  we  pray  for  all  schools,  colleges,  and  other 
seminaries  of  learning.  From  these  fountains  may 
streams  issue,  which  shall  make  glad  the  city  of  our 
God.  Bless  all  teachers  in  them  ;  and  may  the  youth 
be  trained  up  in  the  fear  of  the  Lord. 

Most  gracious  God,  we  beseech  Thee  to  extend  com- 
passion to  the  sons  and  daughters  of  affliction.  Heal 
the  sick ;  ease  the  pained ;  support  the  distressed ; 
succour  the  tempted ;  comfort  mourners ;  restore  to 
their  right  mind  those  who  are  deprived  of  the  use  of 
their  reason  ,•  be  the  God  of  the  widow,  the  father  of 
the  fatherless,  and  the  orphan's  stay. 

And  now,  0  Lord,  our  God,  we  commit  ourselves 
unto  Thee  ;  we  hope  in  Thy  mercies ;  and  we  wait  for 
Thy  salvation.  Pardon  the  iniquity  of  our  holy 
things.  We  ask  and  offer  all,  in  the  Name  of  our 
once  crucified,  but  now  exalted  Redeemer,  the  Lord 
Jesus  Christ:  to  Whom,  with  the  Father,  and  the 
Spirit  of  all  grace,  be  ascribed  glory,  honour,  do- 
minion, and  praise,  for  ever  and  ever.     Amen'. 


SUNDRY    OCCASIONAL    PRATERS. 


THE   MORNING   PRAYER. 

Cause  me  to  hear  Thy  loving-kindness  in  the 
morning  ;  for  in  Thee  do  I  trust. 

Cause  me  to  know  the  ivay  tvherein  I  should 
walk  ;  for  I  lift  up  my  soid  unto  Thee. 

A  LMIGHTY  God,  our  Father  and  Preserver  !  we 
■^■*-  give  Thee  thanks  that  of  Thy  goodness  Thou  hast 
watched  over  us  the  past  night,  and  brought  us  to  this 
day.  And  we  beseech  Thee,  strengthen  and  guard  us 
by  Thy  Spirit,  that  we  may  spend  it  wholly  in  Thy 
service,  aiming  at  Thy  glory,  and  the  salvation  of  our 
fellow-men.  And  even  as  Thou  sheddest  now  the 
beams  of  the  sun  upon  the  earth  to  give  light  unto 
our  bodies,  so  illumine  our  souls  with  the  brightness 
of  Thy  Spirit,  to  guide  us  in  the  paths  of  Thine  obe- 


296    Sundry  Occasional  Peayers. 

dience.  May  all  our  purpose  be  this  daj  to  honour 
and  serve  Thee  ;  may  we  look  for  all  prosperity  to  Thy 
blessing  only,  and  seek  no  object  but  such  as  may  be 
well-pleasing  in  Thy  sight.  Enable  us,  0  Lord!  while 
we  labour  for  the  body,  and  the  life  that  now  is,  ever 
to  look  beyond  unto  that  heavenly  life  which  Thou  hast 
promised  Thy  children.  Defend  us  in  soul  and  body 
from  all  harm.  Guard  us  against  all  assaults  of  the 
devil,  and  deliver  us  from  any  dangers  that  may  beset 
us.  And  seeing  it  is  a  small  thing  to  have  begun 
well,  except  we  also  persevere,  take  us,  0  Lord  !  into 
Thy  good  keeping  this  day,  and  all  our  days ;  con- 
tinue and  increase  Thy  grace  within  us,  until  we  shall 
be  perfectly  united  in  the  glory  of  Thy  Son  Jesus 
Christ  our  Lord,  the  Sun  of  Righteousness,  who  shall 
replenish  our  souls  with  His  eternal  light  and  gladness. 
And  that  we  may  obtain  all  these  blessings,  be  pleased 
to  cast  out  of  Thy  remembrance  all  our  past  offences, 
anii  of  Thy  boundless  mercy  forgive  them ;  as  Thou 
hast  promised  unto  those  who  call  upon  Thee  in  sin- 
cerity and  truth.  Hear  us,  0  God,  our  Father  and 
Redeemer !  Through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord :  In 
Whose  Name  we  pray,  as  He  hath  taught  us,  saying 
— Our  Father,  etc. 


Evening  Prayer.  297 

the  evening  prayer. 

Consider  and  hear  me^  O  Lord  my  God  ;  lighten 
mine  eyes^  lest  I  sleep  the  sleep  of  death. 

I  will  both  lay  me  down  in  peace^  and  steep  ;  for 
Thou,  Lord^  only  makest  me  dwell  in  safety. 

r\  MERCIFUL  God!  Eternal  Light,  shining  in 
^-^  darkness,  Thou  that  dispellest  the  night  of  sin, 
and  all  blindness  of  heart :  Since  Thou  hast  appointed 
the  night  for  rest,  and  the  day  for  labour ;  we  beseech 
Thee,  grant  that  our  bodies  may  rest  in  peace  and 
quietness,  that  afterward  they  may  be  able  to  endure 
the  labour  they  must  bear.  Temper  our  sleep,  that  it 
may  be  pure  and  peaceful ;  that  we  may  remain  spot- 
less both  in  body  and  soul ;  yea,  that  our  Sleep  itself 
may  be  to  Thy  glory.  Enlighten  the  eyes  of  our  un- 
derstanding, that  we  may  not  sleep  in  death  ;  but 
always  look  for  deliverance  from  this  misery.  Defend 
us  against  all  assaults  of  the  devil,  and  take  us  into 
Thy  holy  protection.  And  although  we  have  not 
passed  this  day  without  greatly  sinning  against  Thee, 
we  beseech  Thee  to  hide  our  sins  with  Thy  mercy,  as 
Thou  hidest  all  things  on  earth  with  the  darkness  of 

the  night,  that  we  may  never  be  cast  out  from  Thy 
13* 


298    SuNDKY   Occasional  Pkayers. 

presence.  Relieve  and  comfort  all  those  ^wlio  are 
afflicted  or  distressed,  in  mind,  body,  or  estate : 
Through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord;  Who  hath  taught 
us  to  pray — Our  Father,  etc. 

A   SHORT    PRAYER, 

That  All  Men  may  live  uprightly  in  their  Callings. 

T  ORD  God  Almighty,  Merciful  and  Pure,  be  pleased 
-^  in  favour  to  consider  the  weakness  of  man  :  and 
so  sanctify  us  with  Thy  grace,  that  we  may  all  con- 
fess our  sins,  and  cry  to  Thee  for  pardon ;  all  acknowl- 
edge our  weakness,  and  cry  to  Thee  for  strength  ;  all 
see  our  ignorance,  and  come  to  Thee  for  knowledge 
how  to  behave  ourselves  in  this  mortal  life  in  our  sev^ 
eral  callings  :  That  thereby  both  Thou  mayest  be  glo- 
rified, our  brethren  comforted,  and  ourselves  relieved  : 
that  when  we  shall  be  called  by  Thee  to  render  an  ac- 
count of  our  stewardships,  we  may  be  able  to  stand 
before  Thee  acquitted  from  all  that  either  sin,  the 
devil,  or  our  corrupt  flesh  may  charge  us  with  :  not 
through  our  own  deservings,  which  in  our  best  en- 
deavours are  evil  evermore  ;  but  in  the  merits  of  Thy 
Son  Jesus  Christ.     Amen. 


For  Pardon  and  Help.         299 

a  prayer  for  pardon  and  help. 

r\  MOST  Merciful  Saviour !  Who  by  Thy  life  and 
^^  atoning  death  didst  reconcile  man  with  God  ;  the 
only  hope  of  the  despairing,  and  help  of  them  that  are 
warred  against ;  the  ready  defence  of  all  that  fly  to 
Thee,  the  refuge  of  all  Thy  People :  Abhor  not  us, 
who  by  wicked  works,  words,  and  deeds,  have  rendered 
ourselves  utterly  vile  in  Thy  sight :  but  kindly  pity 
us,  sinners,  and  prodigal  children,  and  receive  our 
prayers,  though  offered  to  Thee  by  polluted  lips.  Open 
unto  us,  0  gracious  Lord,  Thy  tender  mercies ;  and 
passing  by  our  numberless  offences,  turn  us  to  repent- 
ance, and  make  us  tried  doers  of  Thy  precepts.  Be 
also  present  with  us  always  in  Thy  merciful  compas- 
sion :  both  in  this  life,  as  a  constant  protector  and  aid, 
warding  off  every  assault  of  our  enemies,  and  leading 
us  unto  salvation ;  and  in  the  time  of  our  departure, 
caring  for  our  helpless  souls,  and  driving  far  from 
them  all  dark  visions  of  fear  and  fright ;  and  in  the 
awful  day  of  judgment,  delivering  us  from  everlasting 
punishment,  and  making  us  heirs  of  Thine  unspeakable 
glory.  This,  0  Lord,  we  ask  through  Thy  mediation 
and  intercession :  to  Whom,  with  the  Father  and  the 


300  Sundry  Occasional  Prayers. 

Holy   Ghost,   be   all   honour,    glory,   and   dominion. 
Amen. 

a  prayer  in  time  of  discord. 

II /TOST  Gracious  Lord,  we  humbly  beseech  Thee  to 
ITX  grant  us  hearts  mindful  of  Thy  past  mercies 
toward  this  nation.  Suffer  us  never  to  fall  into  un- 
thankfulness  and  forgetfulness  of  Thy  benefits  publicly 
received.  Be  pleased  to  continue  Thy  fatherly  guid- 
ance and  direction  of  our  ways.  Dissipate  the  coun- 
sels of  such  as  labour  to  stir  up  the  hearts  of  this  peo- 
ple against  one  another :  let  their  malicious  practices 
be  for  their  own  confusion ;  and  grant  Thou  of  Thy 
mercy  that  love,  concord,  and  tranquillity  may  con- 
tinue and  increase  among  the  inhabitants  of  this  land, 
even  until  the  coming  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ :  by 
Whose  glorious  Gospel  Thou  dost  call  us  to  unity, 
peace,  and  Christian  harmony,  the  full  perfection 
whereof  we  shall  possess  in  Thy  Kingdom :  where  all 
offences  shall  be  removed,  all  iniquity  suppressed,  and 
Thy  chosen  ones  fully  endued  with  that  perfect  glory 
in  which  our  Lord  Jesus  now  reigneth  ;  Unto  Whom, 
with  Thee  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  be  all  honour  and 
glory  evermore.     Amen, 


Opening  of  a   Church   Court.      301 


A   PRAYER  AT  THE   OPENING   OF  A   CHURCH    COURT. 

Tj^TERNAL  God !  Who  of  Thine  infinite  goodness 
-*-^  hast  chosen  unto  Thyself  a  Church  from  the 
foundation  of  the  world,  we  bless  Thee  for  Thy 
fatherly  love  and  care,  in  ruling,  defending,  and  guid- 
ing Thy  People  in  the  knowledge  of  Thy  blessed  will. 
Give  now,  0  Lord,  unto  us  who  are  here  gathered  in 
Thy  Name,  such  a  measure  of  Thy  Holy  Spirit,  that 
we  may  see  and  ask  of  Thee  those  things  that  shall 
be  expedient  for  Thy  glory  and  the  safety  of  Thy  flock. 
Impart  Thy  grace,  that  we  may  stedfastly  agree  in 
the  unity  of  the  true  doctrine ;  preserve  us  from  all 
error  ;  and  lead  us  into  all  purity  of  life,  that  we  may 
not  dishonour  Thy  holy  Gospel.  Remove  from  us 
all  misapprehensions  and  vain  desires ;  and  grant  that 
Thy  holy  Word  may  be  the  only  guide  and  rule  of 
all  our  consultations ;  that  they  may  tend  to  the  glory 
of  Thy  Name,  the  edification  of  Thy  Church,  and 
the  discharge  of  our  own  conscience.  Grant  this,  0 
Father !  for  the  sake  of  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord  and 
Redeemer  :  To  Whom,  with  Thee  and  the  Holy  Ghost, 
be  all  honour  and  praise,  now  and  ever.     Amen. 


302  Sundry  Occasional  Prayers. 

a  prayer  eor  sick  persons. 
r\  ALMIGHTY,  Eternal,  Righteous  God,  and  Mer- 
^  ciful  Father,  Thou  who  art  Lord  of  life  and 
death,  and  without  whose  will  nothing  is  done  in 
heaven,  nor  on  earth  :  Although  we  are  not  worthy  to 
call  upon  Thy  Name,  nor  to  hope  that  Thou  wilt  hear 
us,  when  we  consider  how  we  have  hitherto  employed 
our  time  :  We  beseech  Thee,  that  Thou  wilt  be  pleased 
of  Thy  mercy  to  look  upon  us  in  the  face  of  Jesus 
Christ,  who  hath  taken  all  our  infirmities  on  Him.  We 
acknowledge  that  we  are  utterly  incapable  of  any  good, 
and  prone  to  all  evil,  wherefore  we  have  justly  merited 
this  punishment,  yea,  have  deserved  much  more.  But, 
Lord,  Thou  knowest  that  we  are  Thy  people,  and 
Thou  art  our  God :  we  have  no  other  refuge  than  in 
Thy  mercy,  which  Thou  hast  never  withheld  from 
any  one  who  turned  himself  to  Thee.  Therefore  we 
beseech  Thee  not  to  impute  our  sins  unto  us,  but  ac- 
count the  wisdom,  righteousness,  and  holiness  of  Jesus 
Christ  unto  us,  that  we  may  in  Him  be  able  to  stand 
before  Thee.  Deliver  us  for  His  sake  from  these 
sufferings,  that  the  wicked  may  not  think  that  Thou 
hast  forsaken  us.  And  if  it  be  Thy  pleasure  longer 
thus  to  try  us,  give  us  strength  and  patience  to  bear 


ForSickPersons.  303 

all  suffering  according  to  Thy  will,  and  let  all  turn  ac- 
cording to  Thy  wisdom  to  our  profit.  Kather  chasten 
us  here,  than  hereafter,  to  be  lost  with  a  sinful  world. 
Grant  that  we  may  die  to  this  world,  and  all  earthly 
things,  and  that  we  may  daily  more  and  more  be  re- 
newed after  the  image  of  Jesus  Christ.  Suffer  us 
not  by  any  means  to  be  separated  from  Thy  love  ;  but 
draw  us  daily  nearer  and  nearer  unto  Thee,  that  we 
may  attain  unto  the  end  of  our  calling  with  joy;,  that 
we  may  die,  rise  again,  and  live  with  Christ  in  eternity. 
We  also  believe  that  Thou  wilt  hear  us  through  Jesus 
Christ,  who  hath  taught  us  to  pray — Our  Father,  etc. 
Strengthen  us  also  in  the  true  Faith,  which  we 
believe  in  our  hearts,  and  profess  with  our  mouths — I 
believe  in  God^  etc. 

The  Same. 
"HTERNAL,  Merciful  God  and  Father,  the  eternal 
-^  salvation  of  the  living,  and  the  everlasting  life 
of  the  dying ;  seeing  that  Thou  hast  death  and  life  in 
Thy  hand  alone,  and  takest  such,  care  of  us  continually, 
that  neither  health  nor  sickness,  nor  any  good  or  evil 
can  befall  us,  nay,  not  a  hair  can  fall  from  our  head, 
without  Thy  will :   and  since   Thou  dost  order  all 


304    Sundry   Occasional  Prayers. 

things  for  the  good  of  Thy  People :  We  beseech  Thee, 
grant  us  the  grace  of  Thy  Holy  Spirit,  to  teach  us 
rightly  to  acknowledge  our  misery,  and  patiently  to 
beai'  Thy  chastenings,  which  we  have  deserved  ten 
thousand  times  more  severe.  We  know  that  they  are 
not  the  evidences  of  Thy  wrath,  but  of  Thy  fatherly 
love  towards  us,  that  we  should  not  be  condemned 
with  the  world.  0  Lord,  increase  our  faith  in  Thine 
infinite  mercy,  that  we  may  be  more  and  more  united 
to  Christ,  as  members  to  their  spiritual  Head,  to  whom 
Thou  wilt  make  us  conformable  in  sufierings  and  in 
glory.  Lighten  the  cross,  so  that  our  weakness  may 
be  able  to  bear  it.  We  submit  ourselves  entirely  to 
Thy  holy  will,  whether  Thou  art  pleased  to  continue 
our  souls  longer  in  these  tabernacles,  or  take  them  into 
eternal  life ;  since  we  belong  to  Christ,  and  therefore 
shall  not  perish.  We  would  willingly  leave  this  weak 
body  in  hope  of  a  blessed  resurrection,  when  it  shall 
be  restored  to  us  much  more  glorious.  Grant  us  to 
experience  the  blessed  comforts  of  the  remission  of 
sins,  and  of  justification  through  Christ,  that  we  by 
that  shield  may  overcome  all  the  assaults  of  Satan. 
May  His  innocent  blood  wash  away  all  the  stain  and 
uncleanness  of  our  sins,  and  His  righteousness  answer 


-ForaSickChild.  305 

for  our  unrighteousness  in  Thy  last  judgment.  Arm 
us  with  faith  and  hope,  that  we  may  not  be  ashamed 
nor  confounded  by  the  terrors  of  death.  But  when  our 
bodily  eyes  are  closing  in  darkness,  may  the  eyes  of 
our  souls  be  directed  towards  Thee  :  and  when  Thou 
shalt  have  deprived  us  of  the  use  of  our  tongues,  may 
our  hearts  never  cease  to  call  upon  Thee.  0  Lord, 
into  Thy  hands  we  commit  our  souls  :  forsake  us  not 
in  our  last  extremity ;  and  that  only  for  the  sake  of 
Jesus  Christ:  Who  hath  taught  us  to  pray — Our 
Father,  etc. 

FOR   A   SICK    CHILD. 

r\  ALMIGHTY  and  most  Merciful  Father!  in 
^  Whose  hands  are  the  issues  of  life  and  death  : 
,Look  down,  we  beseech  Thee,  in  compassion,  upon  the 
sick  child  for  whom  our  prayers  are  desired.  If  it 
be  Thy  good  pleasure,  deliver  him  from  his  bodily 
sickness,  prolong  his  days  upon  the  earth,  enable  him 
to  live  in  Thy  fear  and  to  Thy  glory,  and  visit  him 
with  Thy  salvation.  But  if  it  be  Thy  will,  0  gracious 
God!  to  take  his  soul  at  this  time  out  of  the  world, 
receive  him,  we  pray  Thee,  into  those  heavenly 
habitations,  where  the  spirits  of  all  who  are  in  Christ 


306    Sundry   Occasional  Prayers. 

enjoy  perpetual  repose  and  blessedness.  Grant  this, 
G  Lord !  for  the  love  of  Thy  Son,  our  Saviour  Jesus 
Christ.     Amen. 

FOR  A    PERSON   UNDER   AFFLICTION. 

r\  MEECIFUL  God  and  heavenly  Father!  Who 
"  hast  taught  us  in  Thy  holy  Word  that  Thou 
dost  not  willingly  afflict  the  children  of  men  :  Look 
with  pity,  we  beseech  Thee,  upon  the  sorrows  of  Thy 
servant,  for  whom  our  prayers  are  desired.  In  Thy 
wisdom,  Thou  hast  visited  him  with  trouble,  and  hast 
brought  distress  upon  his  soul.  Remember  him,  0 
Lord  !  in  mercy  :  sanctify  Thy  fatherly  correction  to 
him  ;  endue  his  soul  with  patience  under  his  affliction, 
and  with  resignation  to  Thy  blessed  will.  Comfort 
him.  with  a  sense  of  Thy  goodness,  and  give  him^ 
peace ;  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

FOR   RAIN. 

f\  GOD,  Creator  and  Governor,  Who  preservest  man 
^  and  beast,  look,  we  beseech  Thee,  on  our  dry, 
thirsty  land ;  water  it  abundantly  from  Thy  river 
which  is  full  of  water,  and  let  Thy  paths  drop  fatness, 
that  the  springing  of  the  earth  maybe  blessed,  the 


ForFairWeather.  307 

fruits  thereof  be  perfect  and  plentiful,  and  the  year 
crowned  with  Thy  goodness.  Spare  us,  0  Lord,  in 
Thy  mercy,  and  cause  Thy  people  to  rejoice  because  of 
Thy  bounty.  Shed  forth  Thy  Holy  Spirit  on  Thy 
Churches,  that  Thy  heritage  may  be  confirmed  and 
Thy  word  be  fruitful  abundantly,  for  the  glory  of  Thy 
holy  Name  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

FOR  FAIR   WEATHER. 

r\  GOD  of  love  and  compassion.  Who  of  old  didst  set 
^-^  Thy  bow  in  the  cloud  for  a  token  of  a  covenant 
between  Thee  and  the  earth,  we  humble  ourselves  be- 
fore Thee  on  account  of  our  sins,  and  acknowledge  Thy 
chastisement  to  be  just.  Yet  spare  us,  0  Lord.  Stay 
the  excess  of  rain,  and  cause  Thy  sun  to  shine,  that, 
the  hope  of  harvest  being  fulfilled,  our  barns  may  be 
stored  with  Thy  bounty,  and  our  souls  rejoice  in  Thee. 
Above  all.  0  Lord,  grant  that  the  Sun  of  Righteous- 
ness may  arise  upon  us  with  healing  in  His  wings,  and 
Thy  people,  walking  all  the  day  in  the  light  of  Thy 
countenance,  in  Thy  righteousness  may  be  exalted. 
Do  this,  0  Father  of  mercies,  for  the  sake  of  Thy  Son 
Jesus  Christ.     Amen. 


308    Sundry  Occasional  Prayers. 

FOR   peace. 

f\  GOD  of  peace,  Who  didst  send  unto  us  messages 
^^  of  peace  by  Thj  Son,  the  Prince  of  peace,  and 
commandest  us  to  be  at  peace  with  all  men,  we  entreat 
Thee  to  save  us  from  quarrel,  bloodshed,  and  war. 
.  Still  the  tumult  of  the  people  as  Thou  dost  the  raging 
of  the  sea.^  Disappoint  the  devices  of  the  wicked, 
and  bring  their  machinations  to  naught.  Fill  our 
hearts  and  the  hearts  of  all  men  with  Thy  love,  that 
so  we  may  dwell  in  safety  under  the  wings  of  Thy 
Holy  Spirit,  and  have  peace  with  God  through  our 
Lord  Jesus  Christ.     Amen. 

IN   TIME   OF   PESTILENCE. 

r\  GOD,  we  are  consumed  by  Thine  anger,  and  by 
^-^  Thy  wrath  are  we  troubled.  Thou  hast  seen  that 
our  iniquities  are  great,  and  Thou  hast  sent  the  angel 
.  of  death  to  smite  us  sorely.  Oh,  vex  us  no  more  in 
Thy  displeasure,  but  by  Thy  Holy  Spirit  turn  our 
hearts  and  the  hearts  of  all  our  people  to  Thy  right- 
eous ways,  that  so  Thou  may  est  repent  Thee  of  the 
evil,  and  our  lives  may  be  prolonged  for  the  honour  of 

*  In  time  of  war  may  be  here  inserted : 

Give  us  not  over  into  the  hands  of  our  enemies,  but  defend  us^and  grant  ua 
the  victory,  which  is  in  Thine  hand. 


For   the   Absentfrom  Home.     309 

Thy  blessed  Name.  Yet,  0  Lord,  whatsoever  Thou  hast 
in  store  for  u&  of  good  or  of  evil,  give  us  grace  to  trust 
our  souls  in  Thy  keeping,  and  to  praise  Thee  with  hu- 
mility and  with  fear,  that,  whether  we  live  or  die,  we 
may  be  Thine,  and  at  last  find  an  abundant  entrance 
into  life  eternal,  through  Him  who  died  for  us  and 
rose  again.     Amen. 

FOR   the   absent  FROM   HOME. 

r\  GOD,  Who  art  everywhere  present,  ruling  the  sea 
^^  and  the  land,  we  entreat  Thee  for  [him,  her,  or 
those,]  now  absent  from  us.  Rescue  them  from  peril, 
from  sickness,  from  sin,  and  from  death.  Cover  them 
as  with  a  shield,  and  sanctify  their  experience  of  Thy 
mercy  to  their  eternal  profit  and  joy.  In  due  time 
restore  them  to  their  homes,  and  keep  them  and  us 
through  the  journey  of  this  life,  that  we  all  may  reach 
our  Father's  house  in  peace,  through  His  grace  Who 
hath  opened  the  kingdom  of  heaven  to  all  that  believe 
on  His  holy  Name.     Amen. 


¥ 


A   THANKSGIVING   FOR   RAIN. 

E  thank  Thee,  0  God,  in  Whose  hand  are  all 
things,  that  Thou  hast  heard  our  prayers,  and 

'■'  'of  iim 


# 


810    Sundry  Occasional  Prayers. 

hast  sent  us  abundant  rain.  Continue,  0  Lord,  to  shed 
down  the  riches  of  Thy  bounty,  that  our  valleys  may 
be  covered  with  corn,  and  the  pastures  rejoice.  Grant 
also,  for  Thy  Name's  sake,  that  our  grateful  hearts, 
ever  mindful  of  Thy  love,  may  evermore  praise  Thee 
with  holy  gratitude,  reverence,  and  obedience,  for  Je- 
sus Christ's  sake.     Amen. 

a  thanksgiving  for  fAir  weather. 
f\  GRACIOUS  and  most  compassionate  Lord  God, 
^  we  have  humbled  ourselves  under  Thy  righteous 
pleasure,  and  trembled  under  Thine  afflictive  will. 
Thou  hast  restored  unto  us  the  light  of  hope,  and  stayed 
the  overflowing  of  rain.  Thy  sunshine  is  upon  the 
earth,  and  the  world  is  full  of  Thy  healthful  light. 
Perfect  that  which  Thou  hast  most  mercifully  pre- 
served^ and  let  th«  fields  yield  their  increase.  Shine 
within  our  hearts,  that  we  may  show  forth  the  fruits 
of  a  Christian,  faithful,  and  contented  life,  through  Him 
whom  Thou  lovest.     Amen. 


0 


A  THANKSGIVING   FOR  HARVEST. 

GOD,  Who  hast  said  that  whatsoever  a  man  sow- 
eth  he  shall  also  reap,  we  heartily  thank  Thee  fox 


Thanksgiving  for  Deliverance.   311 

Thy  blessing  on  the  labours  of  the  husbandmenj  and 
that  a  good  harvest  has  been  gathered.  May  we  who 
live  by  Thy  bounty,  live  to  Thy  praise,  and  our  souls 
be  preserved  from  pride  or  forgetfulness  of  Thee,  who 
feedest  Thy  children  with-  the  finest  of  the  wheat. 
Remember  the  poor,  and  cause  us  to  remember  them. 
Speedily  gather  to  Thyself  a  harvest  of  praise  from  all 
nations  and  all  the  earth,  that  the  good  seed  of  the 
Word  sown  in  Thy  Name  may  bear  fruit  abundantly 
to  Thine  eternal  glory,  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord. 
Amen. 


A   THANKSGIVING   FOR   DELIVERANCE   FROM   PESTI- 
LENCE. 

TjlATHER  of  Mercies,  Who  desirest  not  the  death  of 
-*-  the  sinner,  we  thank  Thee  most  humbly  and 
heartily  that  Thou  hast  been  pleased  of  Thine  infinite 
compassion  to  hear  our  prayers,  and  favourably  to  regard 
Thy  suppliant  and  sorrowing  people.  Thou  hast  with- 
drawn from  the  midst  of  us  the  desolating  plague. 
Oh,  that  we  which  remain  alive  may  present  unto 
Thee  our  whole  bodies  as  a  continual  thank-ofiering, 
which  is  our  reasonable  service.  Remember  Thy 
ptomise  unto  the  widow  and  the  orphan,  bind  up  the 


312      SuiTDRY  Occasional  Prayers. 

broken  in  heart,  and  comfort  all  that  mourn,  for  the 
sake  of  Him  who  died  for  us  and  rose  again.     Amen. 

a  thanksgiving  for  a  safe  return  home. 
"TTTE  thank  Thee,  0  God  of  our  mercies,  that  Thou 
'  '  hast  restored  our  brother  to  kis  home  safe  from 
the  perils  of  the  way.  The  earth  is  Thine  ;  the  sea 
also  is  Thine  :  and  Thou  hast  not  suffered  him  to  per- 
ish in  a  strange  land  nor  to  sink  in  the  mighty  waters. 
May  the  goodness  of  God  lead  him  to  a  more  hearty 
repentance,  and  his  soul  ever  rejoice  in  Thee  until  he 
reaches  our  Father's  house,  where  there  is  fulness  of 
joy  in  Thine  eternal  presence,  through  Christ  our  Re- 
deemer.    Amen. 

A   PRAYER   TO   BE   USED    AT   SEA. 

A  LMIGHTY  God,  our  heavenly  Father,  Who  alone 
-^^  commandest  the  winds  and  the  waves,  and  they 
obey  Thee :  we  Thine  unworthy  and  sinful  creatures, 
separated  upon  the  sea  from  the  dwellings  of  men, 
would  humbly  address  to  Thee  our  prayers.  We 
confess  our  manifold  transgressions  and  wickedness ; 
and  implore  Thy  merey  and  forgiving  grace  through 
'  Jesus   Christ  our  Lord  and   Saviour.     We  worship 


Prayers  to  be  used  at   Sea.       313 

Thee,  0  God  ;  and  beholding  Thy  works  and  Thy 
wonders  m  the  deep,  magnify  and  exalt  Thy  great  and 
holy  Name  :  and  ascribe  unto  Thee  all  dominion  and 
majesty  and  glory  for  ever  and  ever.  May  Thy  fear 
ever  fall  upon  us,  0  Lord,  and  Thine  excellence  make 
us  suitably  afraid.  We  give  thanks  unto  Thee  for  Thy 
goodness  and  loving-kindness  to  us,  notwithstanding 
our  guilt,  and  the  magnitude  of  our  sins  :  and  would 
call  upon  our  souls  to  bless  and  praise  Thy  holy  Name, 
for  Thine  upholding  mercy  and  preserving  care. 
Vouchsafe  unto  us,  0  Lord^  the  continued  defences  and 
blessings  of  Thy  Providence.  Spare  us  Thy  just  judg- 
ments ;  shield  us  from  dangers  seen  and  unseen : 
prosper  us  on  our  way,  and  bring  us  to  our  destined 
haven.  Above  all,  grant  unto  us,  0  heavenly  Father, 
the  abundant  influence  of  Thy  Holy  Spirit,  to  enlighten 
our  minds  in  the  knowledge  of  Thy  Truth,  to  purify 
our  hearts  from  indwelling  sin,  and  to  work  in  us  both 
to  will  and  to  do  of  Thy  good  pleasure.  Grant  unto 
us  repentance  and  the  remission  of  sin,  and  that  faith 
which  is  the  gift  of  God :  that  we  may  bring  forth 
unto  Thee,  in  our  hearts  and  lives,  the  peaceable  fruits 
of  righteousness.     Forbid,  0  Lord  our  God,  that  we 

should  make  shipwreck  of  the  soul ;  but  being  guided 
14 


314      Sundry  Occasional  Prayers. 

and  guarded  by  Thy  good  Spirit,  may  we  finish  the 
voyage  of  life  in  safety,  and  find  entrance  at  last  into 
the  haven  of  eternal  rest,  through  Jesus  Christ  our 
Lord  :  To  Whom,  with  Thee  the  Father,  and  the  Holy 
Ghost,  be  glory  everlasting.     Amen. 

■-,  ■      ':,-     u'   ■  •■'■  :^'^  ■      .  '    '  ■     , 

A   PRAYER   FOR   THE    PRESIDENT   OF   THE   UNITED 
STATES,    AND   ALL   IN    CIVIL   AUTHORITY. 

r\  LORD,  our  Heavenly  Father,  the  high  and  mighty 
^^  Ruler  of  the  universe.  Who  dost  from  Thy  throne 
behold  all  the  dwellers  upon  earth  :  most  heartily  we 
beseech  Thee,  with  Thy  favour  to  behold  and  bless 
Thy  servant,  the  President  of  the  United  States,  and 
all  others  in  authority ;  and  so  replenish  them  with 
the  grace  of  Thy  Holy  Spirit,  that  they  may  always  in- 
cline to  Thy  will,  and  walk  in  Thy  way.  Endue  them 
plenteously  with  heavenly  gifts ;  grant  them  in  health 
and  prosperity  long  to  live  ;  and  finally,  after  this  life, 
to  attain  everlasting  joy  and  felicity,  through  Jesus 
Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 


THE   COLLECTS, 


ALMIGHTY  God,  give  us  grace  that  we  may  cast 
away  the  works  of  darkness,  and  put  upon  us  the 
armour  of  light,  now  in  the  time  of  this  mortal  life,  in 
which  Thy  Son  Jesus  Christ  came  to  visit  us  with 
great  humility  :  that  in  the  last  day,  when  He  shall 
come  again  in  His  glorious  Majesty  to  judge  both  the 
quick  and  the  dead,  we  may  rise  to  the  life  immortal, 
through  Him  who  liveth  and  reigneth  with  Thee  and 
the  Holy  Ghost,  now  and  ever.     Amen. 

BLESSEP  Lord,  who  hast  caused  all  Holy  Scrip- 
tures to  be  written  for  our  learning  :  Grant  that 
we  may  in  such  wise  hear  them,  read,  mark,  learn,  and 
inwardly  digest  them,  that  by  patience,  and  comfort  of 
Thy  holy  Word,  we  may  embrace,  and  ever  hold  fast 
the  blessed  hope  of  everlasting  life,  which  Thou  hast 
given  us  in  our  Saviour  Jesus  Christ.     Amen. 


0 


LORD  Jesus  Christ,   who  at  Thy  first  ^coming 
didst  send  Thy  .messenger  to  prepare  Thy  way 


316  The   Collects. 

before  Thee  :  Grant  that  the  ministers  and  stewards  of 
Tliy  mysteries  may  likewise  so  prepare  and  make  ready 
Thy  way,  by  turning  the  hearts  of  the  disobedient  to 
the  wisdom  of  the  just,  that  at  Thy  second  coming  to 
judge  the  world,  we  may  be  found  an  acceptable  peo- 
ple in  Thy  sight;  who  livest  and  reignest . with  the 
Father  and  the  Holy  Spirit,  ever  One  God,  world  with- 
out end.     Amen. 

OLORD,  who  hast  given  us  cause  of  perpetual  joy 
by  the  coming  of  Thy  Son  our  Saviour  among 
us  :  Raise  up  Thy  power,  we  pray  Thee,  and  possess 
us  with  a  mighty  sense  of  Thy  wonderful  love  ;  that 
whereas  through  the  cares  of  this  life  we  are  sorely  let 
and  hindered  in  running  the  race  that  is  set  before  us, 
we  may  be  careful  for  nothing,  but  thankfully  com- 
mending ourselves  in  every  thing  to  Thy  bountiful 
grace  and  mercy,  the  peace  of  Thee  our  God,  which 
passeth  all  understanding,  may  keep  our  hearts  and 
minds,  through  the  satisfaction  of  Thy  Son  our  Lord, 
to  Whom,  with  Thee  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  be  honour 
a,nd  glory,  world  without  end.     Amen. 


ALMIGHTY  God,  who  hast  given  us  Thine  Only- 
begotten  Son,  the  brightness  of  Thy  glory,  and 
the  express  image  of  Thy  person,  to  take  our  nature 
upon  Him,  and  to  be  born  of  a  pure  Virgin :  Grant 


The   Collects.  317 

that  we,  being  regenerate,  and  made  Thy  children  by 
adoption  and  grace,  may  daily  be  renewed  by  Thy  Holy 
Spirit ;  till  Christ  be  perfectly  formed  in  us,  and  we 
be  made  partakers  of  a  Divine  nature,  through  the 
same  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  who  liveth  and  reigneth 
with  Thee  and  the  same  Spirit,  ever  One  God,  world 
without  end.     Amen. 


GRANT,  0  Lord,  that  in  all  our  sufferings  here 
upon  earth  for  the  testimony  of  Thy  Truth,  we 
may  stedfastly  look  up  to  heaven,  and  by  faith  behold 
the  glory  that  shall  be  revealed  ;  and,  being  filled  with 
the  Holy  Ghost,  may  learn  to  love  and  bless  our  per- 
secutors, by  the  example  of  Thy  first  martyr,  Saint 
Stephen,  who  prayed  for  his  murderers  to  Thee,  0 
blessed  Jesus,  who  standest  at  the  right  hand  of  God, 
to  succour  all  those  that  suffer  for  Thee,  our  only  Me- 
diator and  Advocate.     Amen. 


MERCIFUL  God,  who  art  light,  and  in  whom  is  no 
darkness  at  all :  Enlighten  our  minds,  we  most 
humbly  beseech  Thee,  with  such  a  full  understanding 
of  the  doctrine  taught  by  Thy  blessed  Apostle  and 
Evangelist  John,  that  we,  walking  in  the  truth  in  all 
purity  and  holiness  of  life,  may  have  fellowship  with 
Thee  and  Thy  Son  Jesus  Christ :  by  whose  blood  being 


318  The   Collects 


,'lp      cleansed  from  all  our  sins,  we  may  at  length  attain  to 
everlasting  life ;  through  the  same  our  Lord  Jesus 

Christ.     Amen. 

OMOST  Blessed  God,  who  having  sent  Thy  Son 
in  our  nature,  didst  preserve  Him  in  His  in- 
fancy from  the  malice  of  Herod,  by  whom  many  other 
children  were  slain  :  Grant  that  in  all  dangers  and  ad- 
versities we  may  put  our  whole  trust  and  confidence 
in  Thee ;  and  do  Thou  by  Thy  good  providence  pre- 
serve us  from  the  rage  of  unreasonable  and  wicked 
men,  or  strengthen  us  by  patient  sufferings  to  glorify 
Thy  holy  Name ;  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord. 
Amen. 

ALMIGHTY  God,  who  hast  given  Thine  Only  be- 
gotten Son  to  take  our  nature  upon  Him,  and 
be  born  of  a  pure  Virgin  :  Grant  that  we,  being  re- 
generate, and  made  Thy  children  by  adoption  and 
grace,  may  daily  be  renewed  by  Thy  Holy  Spirit, 
which  we  beseech  Thee  to  send  forth  more  and  more 
into  our  hearts,  as  a  testimony  of  Thy  fatherly  love 
unto  us,  and  to  fill  us  with  fervent  love  towards  Thee : 
through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 


ALMIGHTY  God,  who  madest  Thy  Blessed  Son  to 
be  circumcised,  and   obedient    to   the  law  for 


The    Collects.  319 

man  :  Grant  us  the  true  circumcision  of  the  Spirit ; 
that  our  hearts,  and  all  our  memberSj  being  mortified 
from  all  worldly  and  carnal  lusts,  we  may  in  all  things 
obey  Thy  holy  will,  and  obtain  the  remission  of  our 
sins,  and  the  righteousness  which  is  by  the  faith  of 
Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 


OGOD,  who  by  the  leading  of  a  star  didst  mani- 
fest Thine  Only-begotten  Son  to  the  Gentiles, 
and  guide  them  to  the  place  where  He  lay  :  Mercifully 
grant  that  we,  to  whom  Thou  hast  revealed  Him  more 
clearly  by  *lhe  light  of  Thy  glorious  Gospel,  may  make 
such  progress  in  faith  and  holiness,  and  be  so  entirely 
led  and  governed  by  Thy  Spirit,  that  we  may  be 
brought  after  this  life  into  that  blessed  place  where  He 
now  is,  and  there  have  the  fruition  of  Thy  glorious 
presence  for  ever  and  ever,  through  Jesus  Christ  our 
Lord.     Amen. 

OGOD,  whose  infinite  mercies  in  our  blessed  Sav- 
iour encourage  us  to  call  upon  Thee:  We 
beseech  Thee  graciously  to  hear  us ;  and  grant  that 
we  may  both  perceive  and  know  what  is  Thy  good, 
and  acceptable,  and  perfect  will  revealed  to  us,  and 
also  have  grace  and  power  so  faithfully  to  fulfil  the 
same,  that  we  may  present  ourselves  a  living  sacrifice, 


320  The    Collects. 

holy  and  acceptable  unto  Thee,  through  Jesus  Christ 
our  Lord.     Amen. 

ALMIGtHTY  and  Everlasting  God,  who  dost  govern 
all  things  in  heaven  and  earth  :  Mercifully  hear 
the  supplications  of  Thy  people  ;  and  so  rule  and  guide 
us,  that  we  may  do  our  duties  faithfully  in  our  several 
places  and  relations  ;  constantly  abhorring  that  which 
is  evil,  and  cleaving  to  that  which  is  good;  being 
fervent  in  spirit,  serving  the  Lord,  rejoicing  in  hope, 
patient  in  tribula,tion,  and  continuing  instant  in 
prayer ;  so  that  we  may  enjoy  Thy  peace  all  the  days 
of  our  life  ;  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

ALMIGHTY  and  Everlasting  God,  mercifully  look 
upon  our  infirmities,  and  endue  us  with  the 
spirit  of  meekness  and  patience ;  that  no  evil  we  suffer 
from  others  may  move  us  to  do  evil  unto  them,  but 
that  we  may  overcome  them  by  doing  them  good  ;  and 
if  it  be  possible,  as  much  as  lieth  in  us,  live  peaceably 
with  all  men.  And  in  all  our  dangers  and  adver- 
sities, stretch  forth  Thy  hand  to  help  and  defend  us ; 
through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

OGOD,    who    knowest  us  to  be  set  in  the  midst 
of  so  many  and  great  temptations  and  dangers, 
that  by  reason  of  the  frailty  of  our  nature  in  many 


The  Collects.  321 

things  we  offend  all :  Grant  to  -  us  such  strength  and 
protection  as  may  support  us  in  all  dangers,  and  carry 
us  through  all  temptations ;  that,  being  faithful  unto 
Thee,  rendering  unto  all  their  due,  and  doing  that 
which  is  good,  we  may  be  graciously  accepted  of  Thee ; 
through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amex. 

OLORD,  we  beseech  Thee  to  keep  Thy  Church 
and  household  continually  in  Thy  true  religion ; 
and  to  stir  up  every  member  of  the  same  to  adorn 
Thy  holy  profession,  by  putting  on  bowels  of  mercy, 
kindness,  humbleness  of  mind,  meekness,  long-suffer- 
ing ;  that,  resting  only  upon  the  hope  of  Thy  heavenly 
grace,  and  doing  all  in  the  Name  of  our  blessed 
Saviour,  we  may  evermore  be  defended  by  Thy 
mighty  power,  giving  thanks  unto  Thee ;  through 
Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 


OGOD,  whose  Blessed  Son  was  manifested  that 
He  might  destroy  the  works  of  the  devil,  and 
make  us  the  sons  of  God,  and  heirs  of  eternal  life: 
Grant  us,  we  beseech  Thee,  that  having  this  hope, 
we  may  purify  ourselves,  even  as  He  is  pure;  that 
when  He  shall  appear  again  with  power  and  great 
glory,  we  may  be  made  like  unto  Him  in  His  eternal 
and  glorious  Kingdom;  where,  with  Thee,^  0  Father, 
14* 


322  TheCollects. 

and  Thee,   0  Holy  Ghost,  He  liveth  and  reigneth, 
ever  One  God,  world  without  end.     Amen. 

OLORD,  we  beseech  Thee  favourably  to  hear  the 
prayers  of  Thy  People ;  that  we,  who  by  Thy 
grace  are  called  to  the  course  of  a  Christian  life,  may 
be  temperate  in  all  things  :  and  so  run  the  race  that 
is  set  before  us,  as  to  obtain  that  incorruptible  crown 
which  Thou  hast  promised  to  them  that  love  Thee ; 
through  Jesus  Christ  our  Saviour,  who  liveth  and 
reigneth  with  Thee  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  ever  One 
God,  world  without  end.     Amen. 


OLORD,  who  seest  that  we  put  not  our  trust  in 
anything  that  we  do :  Mercifully  grant  that  by 
Thy  power  we  may  be  defended  against  all  adver- 
sities ;  or  so  mightily  aided  by  Thy  grace,  that  we 
may  not  faint  under  them ;  but  having  heard  Thy 
holy  Word  with  honest  and  good  hearts,  we  may  keep 
it,  and  bring  forth  fruit  with  patience,  through  Jesus 
Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

OLORD,  who  hast  taught  us  that  all  our  doings 
without  charity  are  nothing  worth:  Send  Thy 
Holy  Ghost,  and  pour  into  our  hearts  that  most  ex- 
cellent gift  of  charity,  which  is  humble,  meek,  kind, 


The  Collects.  323 

long-suffering  and  patient,  the  very  bond  of  peace  and 
of  all  virtues  :  Grant  this  for  Thine  Only  Son  Jesus 
Christ's  sake.     Amen. 


ALMIGHTY  and  Everlasting  God,  who  hatest 
nothing  that  Thou  hast  made,  and  dost  forgive 
the  sins  of  all  them  that  are  penitent :  Create  and 
make  in  us  new  and  contrite  hearts  ;  that  we,  truly 
lamenting  our  sins,  with  unfeigned  sorrow  and  abhor- 
rence, and  acknowledging  our  wretchedness  with  sin- 
cere resolution  of  amendment  of  life,  may  obtain  of 
Thee,  the  God  of  all  mercy,  perfect  remission  and  for- 
giveness, through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 


OLORD,  who  for  our  sakes  didst  fast  forty  days 
and  forty  nights,  and  vanquish  all  the  tempta- 
tions of  the  devil  by  which  our  first  parents  were  over- 
come :  Grant  that  we  may  not  receive  the  grace  of 
God  in  vain,  but  use  such  abstinence,  that  our  flesh 
being  subdued  to  the  spirit,  no  desire  of  pleasure, 
glory,  or  worldly  advantage  may  tempt  us  from  our 
duty  ;  but  that  we  may  ever  obey  Thy  godly  motions, 
in  righteousness  and  true  happiness,  to  Thine  honour 
and  glory,  who  livest  and  reignest  with  the  Father 
and  the  Holy  Ghost,  One  God,  world  without  end. 
Amen, 


324  The  Collects. 

ALMIGHTY  God,  who  seest  that  we  have  no  power 
of  ourselves  to  help  ourselves  :  Keep  us  both  out- 
wardly in  our  bodies  and  inwardly  in  our  souls ;  that 
we  may  be  defended  from  all  adversities  which  may 
happen  to  the  body,  and  from  all  evil  thoughts  which 
may  assault  and  hurt  the  soul ;  and  as  we  have  re- 
ceived how  we  ought  to  walk  and  please  Thee,  so  may 
we  abound  more  and  more;  through  our  Lord  and 
Saviour  Jesus  Christ.     Amen. 

¥E  beseech  Thee,  Almighty  God,  look  down  upon 
the  hearty  desires  of  Thy  humble  servants,  and 
as  Thou  hast  enlightened  us  with  the  knowledge  of 
Thy  truth,  so  enable  us  to  walk  as  children  of  the 
light,  and  to  have  no  fellowship  with  the  unfruitful 
works  of  darkness ;  that  bringing  forth  the  fruits  of 
the  Spirit,  in  all  goodness,  righteousness,  and  truth, 
we  may  be  ever  under  Thy  Divine  protection  ;  through 
Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

ALMIGHTY  God,  who  hast  made  a  covenant  of 
unspeakable  grace  and  mercy  with  us  in  Christ 
Jesus,  and  conveyed  to  us  therein  an  heavenly  inherit- 
ance upon  sincere  obedience  to  His  commands,  which 
is  our  reasonable  service :  Grant  that  we  may  evermore 
rejoice  in  Thee,  and  walk  worthy  of  our  holy  calling ; 
through  our  Lord  and  Saviour  Jesus  Christ.      Amen. 


The  Collects.  325 

0  ALMIGHTY  God,  who  hast  sent  Thy  Son  Jesus 
Christ  to  be  an  High  Priest  of  good  things  to 
come,  and  bj  His  own  blood  to  enter  in  once  into  the 
holy  place,  having  obtained  an  eternal  redemption  for 
us  :  Mercifully  look  upon  Thy  people  ;  that  by  the  same 
blood  of  our  Saviour,  who  through  the  Eternal  Spirit 
offered  Himself  without  spot  unto  Thee,  our  consciences 
may  be  purged  from  dead  works,  to  serve  Thee  the 
living  God,  that  we  may  receive  the  promise  of  eternal 
inheritance  ;  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

ALMIGHTY  and  Everlasting  God,  who  of  Thy  ten- 
der love  towards  mankind  hast  sent  Thy  Son, 
our  Saviour  Jesus  Christ,  to  take  upon  Him  our  flesh, 
and  that  in  the  form  of  a  servant,  and  to  suffer  death, 
even  the  death  of  the  Cross,  for  our  redemption,  and 
that  we  should  follow  the  example  of  His  great  hu- 
mility, patience,  and  obedience  :  Merciftilly  grant  that 
this  mind  may  be  in  us  which  was  also  in  Christ  Jesus, 
that  we  may  both  follow  the  example  of  His  humble 
obedience  and  patient  suffering,  and  also  be  made  par- 
takers of  His  glorious  resurrection,  to  live  with  Thee 
for  ever.  Grant  this  for  the  sake  of  Thy  Son  our 
Saviour  Jesus  Christ.     Amen. 


ALMIGHTY  God,  the  Father  of  Mercies,  we  be- 
seech Thee  graciously  to  hear  the  prayers  of 


326  The  Collects. 

Thy  Church,  for  which  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ  was 
content  to  be  betrayed,  and  given  up  into  the  hands  of 
wicked  men,  and  to  suffer  death  upon  the  Cross  ;  and, 
according  to  that  new  covenant,  which  He  sealed  there 
with  His  precious  blood,  put  Thy  laws  into  all  our 
hearts,  and  write  them  in  our  minds ;  and  then  remem- 
ber our  sins  and  iniquities  no  more ;  for  the  sake  of 
Him,  who  when  He  had  offered  one  sacrifice  for  sin, 
for  ever  sat  down  on  Thy  right  hand,  and  now  liveth 
and  reigneth  with  Thee  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  ever  One 
God,  world  without  end.     Amen. 

ALMIGHTY  and  Everlasting  God,  by  whose  Spirit 
the  whole  body  of  the  Church  is  governed  and 
sanctified :  Receive  our  supplications  and  prayers, 
which  we  offer  before  Thee  for  all  estates  of  men  in 
Thy  holy  Church  ;  that  all  the  members  of  the  same, 
drawing  near  unto  Thee  with  a  true  heart  and  in  full 
assurance  of  faith,  having  their  souls  and  bodies  puri- 
fied from  all  uncleanness,  may  hold  fast  the  profession 
of  their  faith  without  wavering  ;  and  in  their  vocation 
and  ministry  truly  and  godlily  serve  Thee,  through  our 
Lord  and  Saviour  Jesus  Christ.     Amen. 

0  MERCIFUL  God,  who  hast  made  all  men,  and 
hatest  nothing  that  Thou  hast  made,  nor  would- 
est  the  death  of  a  sinner,  but  rather  that  he  should  be 


The    Collects.  327 

converted  and  live  :  Have  mercy  upon  all  Jews,  Turks, 
Infidels,  and  Heretics ;  make  known  Thy  blessed 
Gospel  unto  them ;  take  from  them  all  ignorance, 
hardness  of  heart,  and  contempt  of  Thy  Word  ;  -work 
a  lively  faith  in  them;  and  so  bring  them  home,  blessed 
Lopil,  to  Thy  flock,  that  they  may  be  saved  among  the 
remnant  of  the  true  Israelites,  and  be  made  one  fold 
under  one  Shepherd,  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord,  who  liveth 
and  reigneth  with  Thee  and  the  Holy  Spirit,  One  God, 
world  without  end.     Amen. 

BLESSED  Lord,  whose  only  Son  our  Saviour  Jesus 
Christ  hath  once  suffered  for  our  sins,  the  just 
for  the  unjust,  that  He  might  bring  us  to  Thee  our 
God :  We  beseech  Thee,  that  as  we  are  baptized  into 
His  death,  so  by  continually  mortifying  our  corrupt 
affections  we  may  be  biiried  with  Him ;  and  at  last 
through  the  grave,  and  gate  of  death,  pass  to  our  joy- 
ful resurrection :  For  His*  merits,  who  died,  and  was 
buried,  and  rose  again.  Thy  Son  Jesus  Christ  our 
Lord.     Amen. 

ALMIGHTY  God,  who  by  the  resurrection  of  Thine 
Only-begotten  Son,  Jesus  Christ,  hast  overcome 
death,  and  opened  to  us  the  gate  of  everlasting  life : 
We  humbly  beseech  Thee,  that  as  by  Thy  special  grace 
preventing  us.  Thou  dost  put  into  our  minds  good  de- 


328  TheCollects. 

sires,  so  by  Thy  continual  help  we  may  stedfastly  set 
our  hearts  upon  those  things  which  are  above  :  that 
when  Christ,  who  is  our  Life,  shall  appear,  we  may 
also  appear  with  Him  in  glory,  where  He  now  liveth 
and  reigneth  with  Thee  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  ever  One 
God,  world  without  end.     Amen.  '  ^    ' 

ALMIGHTY  Father,  who  hast  given  Thine  only  Son 
to  die  for  our  sins,  and  to  rise  again  for  our  justi- 
fication :  Increase  and  strengthen  our  faith  in  Thee, 
and  in  Thy  Son  whom  Thou  hast  sent ;  that  so  be- 
lieving in  Him,  we  may  overcome  the  world,  and  at- 
tain unto  eternal  life  :  Through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord. 
Amen. 

A  LMIGHTY  God,  who  hast  given  Thine  only  Son 
-TL  to  be  unto  us  both  a  sacrifice  for  sin,  and  also  an 
example  of  godly  life :  Give  us  grace  that  we  may 
always  most  thankfully  receive  that  His  most  inesti- 
mable benefit ;  and  also  daily  endeavour  to  follow  the 
blessed  steps  of  His  most  holy  life  :  that  dying  unto 
sin,  and  living  unto  righteousness,  we  may  at  last  ob- 
tain eternal  life  :  Through  the  same  Jesus  Christ  our 
Lord.    Amen. 

ALMIGHTY  God,  who  showest  to  them  that  be  in 
error  the  light  of  Thy  truth,  to  the  intent  that 


The   Collects.  a29 

the  J  may  return  into  the  way  of  righteousness  :  Grant 
unto  all  those  who  are  admitted  into  the  fellowship  of 
Christ's  religion,  that  as  strangers  and  pilgrims  they 
may  abstain  from  fleshly  lusts,  and  follow  all  such 
things  as  are  agreeable  to  their  holy  profession; 
through  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ.     Amen. 

0  ALMIGHTY  God,  who  alone  canst  order  the 
unruly  wills  and  affections  of  sinful  men  :  Gf'ant 
unto  us  Thy  people,  that  we  may  love  the  j;hings  which 
Thou  commandest,  and  desire  that  which  Thou  dost 
promise;  that  so,  among  the  sundry  aud  manifold 
changes  of  the  world,  our  hearts  may  surely  there  be 
fixed,  where  true  joys  are  to  be  found :  Through 
Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen.   ^ 

ALMIGHTY  God,  who  hast  blessed  the  earth,  that 
it  should  be  fruitful,  and  bring  forth  every 
thing  that  is  necessary  for  the  life  of  man,  and  hast 
commanded  us  to  work  with  quietness,  and  eat  our 
own  bread :  Bless  us  in  all  our  labours,  and  grant  us 
such  seasonable  weather  that  we  may  gather  ir^  the 
fruits  of  the  earth,  and  ever  rejoice  in  Thy  goodness, 
to  the  praise  of  Thy  holy  Name  :  Through  Jesus 
Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 


0 


GOD,  the  King  of  Glory,  who  hast  exalted  Thy 
Son  Jesus  Christ  with  great  triumph  into  the 


330  The^Collects. 


kingdom  of  heaven  :  Grant,  we  beseech  Thee,  that  we 
ma  J  also  in  heart  and  mind  thither  ascend,  and  with 
Him  continually  dwell,  who  liveth  and  reigneth,  with 
Thee  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  One  God,  world  without 
end.     Amen. 

OGOD,  the  King  of  Glory,  who  hast  exalted  Thine 
only  Son  Jesus  Christ  with  great  triumph  unto 
Thy  Kingdom  in  heaven,  and  yet  didst  not  leave 
Thine  Apostles  comfortless :  "Vouchsafe,  we  beseech 
T'hee,  to  give  us  Thy  Holy  Spirit  to  guide  and  com- 
fort us  ;  that,  being  sober,  and  watching  unto  prayer, 
and  above  all  things  having  fervent  charity  among 
ourselves,  we  may  be  exalted  into  the  same  place 
whither  our  Saviour  Christ  is  gone  before :  Who 
liveth  and  reigneth,  with  Thee  and  the  Holy  Ghost, 
One  God,  world  without  end.     Amen.    , 

0  ETERNAL  God,  who,  according  to  Thy  faithful 
promise,  didst  send  the  Holy  Ghost  on  the  day 
of  Pentecost :  Grant  us  by  the  same  Spirit  to  have 
a  right  judgment  in  all  things,  and  evermore  to  re- 
joice in  His  holy  comfort :  Through  the  merits  of 
Christ  Je^us  our  Saviour,  who  liveth  and  reigneth 
with  Thee,  in  the  unity  of  the  same  Spirit,  world 
without  end.     Amen. 


The  Collects.  331 

HOLY,  holj,  holy,  Lord  God  Almighty  !  Thou  art 
worthy  to  receive  glory,  and  honour,  and  power : 
for  Thou  hast  created  all  things,  and  for  Thy  pleasure 
they  are  and  were  created.  Blessed  be  Thy  Divine 
Majesty,  who  hast  given  us  Thy  servants  grace,  by 
the  confession  of  a  true  faith  to  acknowledge  the  glory 
of  the  eternal  Trinity,  and  to  worship  one  God, 
Father,  Son,  and  Holy  Ghost.  "We  beseech  Thee 
that  Thou  wouldst  keep  us  stedfast  in  this  faith,  and 
in  holiness  of  life  ;  and  give  us  grace  to  walk  worthy 
of  Thee  :  Who  livest  and  reignest  ever  one  God, 
world  without  end.     Amen. 

OGOD,  the  strength  of  all  them  that  put  their 
trust  in  Thee,  mercifully  accept  our  prayers ; 
and  because  through  the  weakness  of  our  mortal  na- 
ture we  can  do  no  good  thing  without  Thee,  grant  us 
the  help  of  Thy  grace  :  that  we,  stedfastly  believing 
in  Thy  Son  Jesus  Christ,  and  loving  one  another  as 
He  hath  given  us  commandment,  may  please  Thee 
both  in  will  and  deed :  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord. 
Amen.  ^ 

OLORD,  who  never  failest  to  help  and  govern 
those  whom  Thou  dost  bring  up  in  Thy  stedfast 
fear  and  love :  Keep  us,  we  beseech  Thee,  under  the 
protection  of  Thy  good  providence,  and  make  us  to 


332  The   Collects. 

have  a  perpetual  fear  and  love  of  Thy  holy  Name: 
through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

OGOD  of  all  grace,  v^ho  hast  called  us  into  Thine 
eternal  glory  by  Christ  Jesus:  We  beseech 
Thee  mercifully  to  hear  the  prayers,  which  with 
hearty  desires  we  make  unto  Thee ;  and  grant  that 
we,  being  clothed  with  humility,  and  casting  all  our 
care  on  Thee,  may  be  sober  and  vigilant,  and  continu- 
ing stedfast  in  the  faith,  may  resist  all  the  temptations 
of  the  devil,  and  at  length  obtain  the  crown  of  life ; 
through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

OCrGD,  who  hast  taught  us  that  the  sufferings  of 
this  present  time  are  not  worthy  to  be  compared 
with  the  glory  that  shall  be  revealed  in  us  :  Increase 
and  multiply  upon  us  Thy  mercy ;  that  Thou  being 
pur  ruler  and  guide,  we  may  so  pass  through  things 
temporal,  that  we  finally  lose  not  the  things  eternal. 
Grant  this,  G  Heavenly  Father,  for  the  sake  of  Jesus 
Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

OLGRD,  whose  eyes  are  over  the  righteous,  and 
Thine  ears  open  to  their  prayers :  We  most 
humbly  beseech  Thee  to  make  us  all  of  one  mind,  hav- 
ing compassion  one  of  another,  loving  as  brethren, 
being  pitiful  and  courteous,  eschewing  all  evil  in  word 


The  Collects.  333 

and  deed,  and  doing  good,  seeking  peace  with  all  men ; 
so  that  we  may  attain  that  peace  which  passeth  all 
understanding ;     through    Jesus    Christ    our    Lord. 

Amen. 


0 


GOD,  who  hast  prepared  for  them  that  love  Thee 
such  good  things  as  pass  man's  understanding : 
Pour  into  our  hearts  such  love  toward  Thee,  that  we, 
loving  Thee  above  all  things,  may  obtain  Thy 
promises,  which  exceed  all  that  we  can  desire ; 
through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 


LORD  of  all  power  and  might,  who  art  the  Author 
and  Giver  of  all  good  things  :  Graft  in  our  hearts 
the  love  of  Thy  Name  ;  increase  in  us  true  religion  ; 
nourish  us  with  all  goodness ;  and  of  Thy  great  mercy 
keep  us  in  the  same  ;  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord. 
Amen. 

MOST  Gracious  God,  who  hast  given  us  the  spirit 
of  adoption,  whereby  we  call  Thee  our  Father  : 
Grant  that  we,  mortifying  the  deeds  of  the  body,  and 
being  led  by  Thy  Holy  Spirit,  may  live  as  becomes 
Thy  children,  and  joint  heirs  with  Christ ;  and  finally 
be  glorified  together  with  Him  :-  Who  liveth  and 
reigneth  with  Thee  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  ever  one  God, 
world  without  end.     Amen. 


334  The   Collects. 


M 


OGOD,  who  hast  in  Thy  Holy  Word  set  before  us 
Thy  righteous  judgments  upon  Thine  ancient 
people  the  Jews,  for  our  admonition  and  example: 
Preserve  us  by  Thy  grace  from  all  those  sins  by  which 
they  provoked  Thy  wrath  against  them ;  and  never 
suffer  us  to  be  tempted  above  what  we  are  able,  but 
make  a  way  for  us  to  escape  the  temptation,  or  enable 
us  to  bear  it;  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord. 
Amen. 

OGrOD,  who  wast  pleased  to  bestow  grea,t  diversity 
of  spiritual  gifts  for  the  first  planting  of  Thy 
Church  :  We  beseech  Thee  still  to  pour  out  such  a 
^measure  of  Thy  Holy  Spirit  upon  every  member  of  the 
same,  as  may  be  for  the  profit  and  edification  of  the 
whole  Body,  united  together  in  love  by  one  and  the 
same  Spirit :  Through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 


OGOD,  who  hast  brought  life  and  immortality  to 
light  by  the  Gospel,  and  hast  begotten  us  again  to 
a  lively  hope  by  the  resurrection  of  Jesus  Christ  from 
the  dead :  Make  us  stedfast  and  immoveable  in  this 
faith,  always  abounding  in  the  work  of  the  Lord  :  Who 
died  for  our  sins,  and  rose  again,  and  now  liveth  and 
reigneth  with  Thee  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  ever  one  God, 
world  without  end.     Amen. 


*• 


''  The   Collects.  335 

OMOST  Merciful  Father,  who  bjthe  glorious  min- 
istration of  the  Spirit  hast  given  us  a  clear  reve- 
lation of  Thj  will  in  the  Gospel  of  Thj  Son  :  We  be- 
seech Thee  to  enlighten  our  minds,  that  we  may  rightly 
understand  it  and  duly  value  it,  and  frame  our  lives 
according  to  it,  to  Thine  honour  and  glory  :  Through 
Jesas  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

0  ETERNAL  Ood,  who  hast  called  all  nations  to  be 
one  by  faith  in  Christ  Jesus  :  Grant  that  we  who 
are  baptized  into  Him  may  so  faithfully  serve  Thee  in 
this  life,  that  we  fail  not  finally  to  attain  Thy  heavenly 
promises :  Through  the  merits  of  Jesus  Christ  our 
Lord.     Amen.  .         .  ' 

ALMIGHTY  and  Everlasting  God,  we  beseech  Thee, 
enable  us  more  and  more  to  mortify  the  flesh, 
with  the  affections  and  lusts  thereof,  and  to  bring  forth 
the  fruit  of  the  Spirit  in  love,  joy,  peace,  long-suffer- 
ing, gentleness,  goodness,  faith,  meekness,  temperance  ; 
that  we,  loving  what  Thou  dost  command,  may  obtain 
that  which  Thou  dost  promise  :  Through  Jesus  Christ 
our  Lord.     Amen. 


A1M1GB.TY  God,  who  having  made  Thy  Son  Jesus 
Christ  perfect  through  suffering,  hast  called  us 
to  be  His  disciples  and  followers :  Endue  us,  we  be- 


336  The  Collects. 

seech  Thee,  with  the  same  Spirit  which  was  in  Him; 
that  we,  being  crucified  to  the  world,  may  patiently 
bear  the  cross ;  and  being  renewed  in  our  natures  in 
righteousness  and  true  holiness,  and  walking  according 
to  this  rule,  peace  and  mercy  may  be  upon  us : 
Through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

OGOD,  the  Father  of  all,  who  art  above  all,  through 
all,  and  in  us  all :  Grant,  we  pray  Thee,  that 
Thy  grace  may  always  prevent  and  follow  us,  that  we 
may  walk  worthy  of  the  vocation  wherewith  we  are 
called,  with  all  lowliness  and  meekness,  with  long-suf- 
fering, forbearing  one  another  in  love,  endeavouring  to 
keep  the  unity  of  the  Spirit  in  the  bond  of  peace : 
that,  being  continually  given  to  all  good  works,  we 
may  finally  attain  everlasting  joy  and  felicity  :  Through 
our  Lord  and  Saviour  Jesus  Christ.     Amen. 

OLORD,  who  hast  enriched  us  with  the  knowledge 
of  Thy  holy  Gospel :  Grant  us  grace,  we  beseech 
Thee,  so  to  wait  for  the  coming  of  our  Lord  Jesus 
Christ  to  judge  the  world  in  righteousness,  that  we  may 
withstand  the  temptations  of  the  world,  the  flesh,  and 
the  devil,  and  with  such  pure  hearts  follow  Thee  the 
only  true  God,  that  we  may  l)e  confirmed  unto  the 
end,  and  be  blameless  in  the  day  of  our  Lord  Jesus 
Christ.     Amen. 


The  Collects.  337 

OGOD,  forasmuch  as  without  Thee  we  are  not  able 
to  please  Thee  :  Mercifully  grant,  that  Thy  Holy- 
Spirit  may  in  all  things  direct  and  rule  our  hearts,  and 
renew  us  in  the  spirit  of  our  mind  :  that  putting  away 
all  bitterness  and  wrath,  anger  and  malice,  and  every 
other  evil  affection,  and  being  kind  one  to  another, 
tender-hearted,  forgiving  one  another,  even  as  Thou,  0 
God,  for  Christ's  sake  hast  forgiven  us,  we  may  com- 
fortably look  with  an  assured  hope  for  the  day  of  re- 
demption from  all  evils,  unto  eternal  life  :  Through 
Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

0  MERCIFUL  God,  who  according  to  Thy  divine 
power  hast  given  us  all  things  pertaining  to  life 
and  godliness  :  Make  us  strong  in  the  Lord,  in  the 
power  of  His  might :  that  putting  on  the  whole  armour 
of  God,  we  may  be  able  to  resist  all  the  temptations 
of  the  devil,  praying  to  Thee  always  with  fervent 
prayer,  and  watching  thereunto  with  all  perseverance  : 
Through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

OGOD,  who  hast  set  before  us  many  and  great  ex- 
amples of  a  holy  and  heavenly  life  :  Assist  us 
by  Thy  grace  to  be  followers  of  them,  as  they  were  of 
Christ ;  that  we  may  not  mind  earthly  things,  but 
having  our  conversation  in  heaven,  may  look  for  the 

Saviour  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,   to  change  our  vile 

15 


338  The  Collects. 

bodies,  and  fashion  them  like  unto  His  glorious  Body, 
in  which  He  liveth  and  reigneth  with  Thee  and  the 
Holy  Spirit,  ever  One  God,  world  without  end. 
Amen. 


0  ETERNAL  God,  who  art  faithful  and  true,  and 
according  to  Thy  gracious  promises  hast  raised 
up  a  glorious  Deliverer  to  us,  who  is  the  Lord  our 
Righteousness  :  We  beseech  Thee  to  stir  up  the  wills 
of  Thy  faithful  people  ;  that,  bringing  forth  plenteously 
the  fruit  of  good  works,  they  may  be  a  people  prepared 
for  the  Lord.  And  we  pray  Thee,  hasten  His  king- 
dom, when  He  shall  reign,  and  prosper,  and  execute 
judgment  and  justice  in  all  the  earth.  Grant  this  for 
Thine  infinite  mercies'  sake  in  Jesus  Christ :  To 
Whom,  with  Thee,  0  Father,  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  be 
praise  eternal.     Amen. 


ALMIGHTY  God,  who  didst  give  such  grace  unto 
Thy  holy  Apostle  Saint  Andrew,  that  he  readily 
obeyed  the  calling  of  Thy  Son  Jesus  Christ,  and  fol- 
lowed Him  without  delay  :  grant  unto  us  all,  that  we, 
being  called  by  Thy  holy  Word,  may  forthwith  give 
up  ourselves  obediently  to  fulfil  Thy  holy  command- 
ments, through  the  same  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord. 
Amen. 


"^The  Collects.  339 

ALMIGHTY  and  ever  liviDg  God,  who,  for  the 
greater  confirmation  of  the  faith,  didst  suffer 
Thy  holj  Apostle  Thomas  to  be  doubtful  in  Thy  Son's 
resurrection  :  Grant  us  so  perfectly,  and  without  any 
doubt,  to  believe  in  Thy  Son  Jesus  Christ,  that  our 
faith  in  Thy  sight  may  never  be  reproved.  Hear  us, 
0  Lord,  through  the  same  Jesus  Christ ;  to  Whom, 
with  Thee  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  be  all  honour  and 
glory,  now  and  for  evermore.     Amen. 

OGOD,  who  through  the  preaching  of  the  blessed 
Apostle  Saint  Paul,  hast  caused  the  light  of  the 
Gospel  to  shine  throughout  the  world  :  Grant,  we  be- 
seech Thee,  that  we,  having  his  wonderful  conversion 
in  remembrance,  may  show  forth  our  thankfulness 
unto  Thee  for  the  same,  by  following  the  holy  doctrine 
which  he  taught,  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord. 
Amen. 

ALMIGHTY  and  ever  living  God,  we  humbly  be- 
seech Thy  Majesty,  that  as  Thine  Only-begotten 
Son  was  presented  in  the  Temple  in  substance  of  our 
flesh,  so  we  may  be  presented  unto  Thee  with  pure 
and  clean  hearts,  by  the  same  Thy  Son  Jesus  Christ 
our  Lord.     Amen. 


0 


ALMIGHTY  God,  who   into   the  place  of   the 
traitor  Judas,  didst  choose  Thy  faithful  servant 


340  The    Collects. 

Matthias,  to  be  of  the  number  of  the  twelve  Apostles : 
Grant  that  Thj  Church,  being  always  preserved  from 
false  Apostles,  may  be  ordered  and  guided  by  faithful 
and  true  pastors;  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord. 
Amen. 

VE  beseech  Thee,  0  Lord,  pour  Thy  grace  into 
our  hearts ;  that  as  we  have  known  the  incar- 
nation of  Thy  Son  Jesus  Christ  by  the  message  of  an 
angel,  so  by  His  cross  and  passion  we  may  be  brought 
unto  the  glory  of  His  resurrection,  through  the  same 
Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

0  ALMIGHTY  God,  who  hast  instructed  Thy  holy 
Church  with  the  heavenly  doctrine  of  Thine 
Evangelist  Mark :  give  us  grace,  that  being  not  like 
children  carried  away  with  every  blast  of  vain  doc- 
trine, we  may  be  established  in  the  truth  of  Thy  holy 
Gospel,  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

0  ALMIGHTY  God,  whom  truly  to  know  is  ever- 
lasting life  :  Grant  us  perfectly  to  know  Thy  Son 
Jesus  Christ  to  be  the  way,  the  truth,  and  the  life ; 
that  following  the  steps-  of  Thy  holy  Apostles,  Philip 
and  James,  we  may  stedfastly  walk  in  the  way  that 
leadeth  to  eternal  life,  through  the  same  Thy  Son 
Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 


The    Collects.  341 

OLORD  God  Almighty,  who  didst  endue  Thy 
holy  Apostle  Barnabas  with  singular  gifts  of  the 
Holy  Ghost :  leave  us  not,  we  beseech  Thee,  destitute 
of  Thy  manifold  gifts,  nor  yet  of  grace  to  use  them 
alway  to  Thine  honour  and  glory,  through  Jesus 
Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 


ALMIGHTY  God,  by  whose  providence  Thy  servant 
John  Baptist  was  wonderfully  born,  and  sent  to 
prepare  the  way  of  Thy  Son  our  Saviour,  by  preach- 
ing repentance  :  make  us  so '  to  follow  his  doctrine 
and  holy  life,  that  we  may  truly  repent  according  to 
his  preaching ;  and  after  his  example  constantly 
speak  the  truth,  boldly  rebuke  vice,  and  patiently 
suffer  for  the  truth's  sake,  through  Jesus  Christ  our 
Lord.    Amen. 

0  ALMIGHTY  God,  who,  by  Thy  Son  Jesus  Christ, 
didst  give  to  Thine  Apostle  Saint  Peter  many 
excellent  gifts,  and  commandedst  him  earnestly  to  feed^ 
Thy  flock  :  make,  we  beseech  Thee,  all  Bishops  and 
Pastors  diligently  to  preach  Thy  holy  Word,  and  the 
people  diligently  to  follow  the  same,  that  they  may  re- 
ceive the  crown  of  everlasting  glory :  Through  Jesus 
Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 


342  The  Collects. 

GRANT,  0  Merciful  God,  that  as  Thy  holy  Apostle 
James,  leaving  his  father  and  all  that  he  had, 
without  delay  was  obedient  unto  the  calling  of  Thy 
Son  Jesus  Christ,  and  followed  Him  :  so  we,  forsaking 
all  worldly  and  carnal  affections,  may  be  evermore 
ready  to  follow  Thy  holy  commandments  as  he  did,  and 
with  him  to  lay  down  our  lives  for  the  testimony  of 
Thy  Truth  :  Through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

0  ALMIGHTY  and  Everlasting  God,  who  didst  give 
to  Bartholomew  and  the  other  Apostles  grace 
truly  to  believe  and  to  preach  Thy  "Word,  and  power 
to  confirm  it  with  many  signs  and  wonders  :  Grant,  we 
beseech  Thee,  unto  Thy  Church,  to  love  that  Word 
which  they  believed ;  and  both  to  preach  and  receive 
the  same  :  Through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

0  ALMIGHTY  God,  who  by  Thy  blessed  Son  didst 
call  Matthew  from  the  receipt  of  custom,  to  be  an 
Apostle  and  Evangelist :  Grant  us  grace  to  forsake  all 
covetous  desires,  and  inordinate  love  of  riches ;  and  to 
follow  the  same  Thy  Son  Jesus  Christ,  who  liveth  and 
reigneth  with  Thee  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  One  God, 
world  without  end.     Amen. 


0 


EVERLASTING  God,   who  hast  ordained  and 
constituted  the  services  of  Angels  and  men  in  a 


The   Collects.  343 

wonderful  order  :  Mercifullj.grant,  that  as  Thy  holy 
Angels  al way  do  Thee  service  in  heaven,  so  by  Thine 
appointment  they  may  succour  and  defend  us  on  earth : 
Through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

ALMIGHTY  God,  who  didst  inspire  Luke  the 
Evangelist  to  write  in  order  the  Gospel  of  our 
Lord  Jesus  Christ :  Grant  that  we,  being  instructed 
in  the  certainty  thereof,  may  most  surely  believe  it, 
and  conform  ourselves  to  the  holy  precepts  and  exam- 
ples of  our  blessed  Lord  and  Saviour,  who  liveth  and 
reigneth  with  Thee  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  ever  One  God, 
world  without  end.     Amen. 

0  ALMIGHTY  God,  who  hast  built  Thy  Church 
upon  the  foundation  of  the  Apostles  and  Prophets, 
Jesus  Christ  Himself  being  the  head  Corner-stone  : 
Grant  us  to  be  so  joined  together  in  unity  of  spirit  by 
their  doctrine,  that  we  may  be  made  an  holy  temple 
acceptable  unto  Thee :  Through  Jesus  Christ  our 
Lord.     Amen. 

0  ALMIGHTY  God,  who  hast  knit  together  Thine 
elect  in  one  communion  and  fellowship,  in  the 
mystical  Body  of  Thy  Son  Christ  our  Lord :  Grant  us 
grace  so  to  follow  Thy  blessed  Saints  in  all  virtuous 
and  godly  living,  that  we  may  come  to  those  unspeak- 


344  The   Collects. 

able  joys  which  Thou  hast  prepared  for  those  that  un- 
feigned! j  love  Thee  :  Through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord. 
Amen. 

ASSIST  us  mercifully,  0  Lord,  in  these  our  sup- 
plications and  prayers  ;  and  dispose  the  way  of 
Thy  servants  towards  the  attainment  of  everlasting 
salvation  :  that  among  all  the  changes  and  chances  of 
this  mortal  life,  they  may  ever  be  defended  by  Thy 
most  gracious  and  ready  help  :  Through  Jesus  Christ 
our  Lord.     Amen. 

GRANT,  we  beseech  Thee,  Almighty  God,  that  the 
words  which  we  have  heard  this  day  with  our 
outward  ears,  may,  through  Thy  grace,  be  so  grafted 
inwardly  in  our  hearts,  that  they  may  bring  forth  in 
us  the  fruit  of  good  living ;  to  the  honour  and  praise 
of  Thy  Name :  Through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord. 
Amen. 


DIRECT  us,  0  Lord,  in  all  our  doings,  with  Thy 
most  gracious  favour,  and  further  us  with  Thy 
continual  help  :  that  in  all  our  works  begun,  continued, 
and  ended  in  Thee,  we  may  glorify  Thy  holy  Name  ; 
and  finally,  by  Thy  mercy,  obtain  everlasting  life  : 
Through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 


The  Collects.  345 

ALMIGHTY  God,  the  fountain  of  all  wisdom,  who 
knowest  our  necessities  before  we  ask,  and  our 
ignorance  in  asking  :  We  beseech  Thee  to  have  com- 
passion upon  our  infirmities ;  and  those  things  which 
for  our  unwortbiness  we  dare  not,  and  for  our  blindness 
we  cannot  ask,  vouchsafe  to  give  us,  for  the  worthiness 
of  Thy  Son  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 


ALMIGHTY  God,  who  hast  promised  to  hear  the 
petitions  of  those  that  ask  in  Thy  Son's  Name  : 
We  beseech  Thee  mercifully  to  incline  Thine  ear  to 
us  who  have  now  made  our  prayers  and  supplications 
unto  Thee  ;  and  grant  that  those  things  which  we  have 
faithfully  asked  according  to  Thy  will,  may  effectually 
be  obtained  ;  to  the  relief  of  our  necessity,  and  to  the 
setting  forth  of  Thy  glory  :  Through  Jesus  Christ  our 
Lord.     Amen. 


OGOD,  Holy  Ghost,  Sanctifier  of  the  Faithful, 
visit,  we  pray  Thee,  this  congregation  with  Thy 
love  and  favour ;  enlighten  their  minds  more  and 
more  with  the  light  of  the  everlasting  Gospel ;  graft 
in  their  hearts  a  love  of  the  truth ;  increase  in  them 
true  religion ;  nourish  them  with  all  goodness  ;  and 
of  Thy  great  mercy  keep  them  in  the  same,  0  blessed 
Spirit :  Whom,  with  the  Father  and  the  Son  together,* 
15* 


346  The   Collects. 

we  worship  and  glorify  as  Ono  God,  world  without 
end.     Amen. 


.0 


ALMIGHTY  God,  who  hast  built  Thy  Church 
upon  the  foundation  of  the  Apostles  and  Proph- 
ets, Jesus  Christ  Himself  being  the  chief  Corner-stone : 
Grant  that,  by  the  operation  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  all 
Christians  may  be  so  joined  together  in  unity  of  spirit, 
and  in  the  bond  of  peace,  that  they  may  be  an  holy 
temple  acceptable  unto  Thee.  And  especially  to  this 
congregation  present  give  the  abundance  of  Thy  grace ; 
that  with  one  heart  they  may  desire  the  prosperity  of 
Thy  holy  Apostolic  Church,  and  with  one  mouth  may 
profess  the  faith  once  delivered  to  the  Saints.  De- 
fend them  from  the  sins  of  heresy  and  schism ;  let 
not  the  foot  of  pride  come  nigh  to  hurt  them,  nor  the 
hand  of  the  ungodly  to  cast  them  down.  And  grant 
that  the  course  of  this  world  may  be  so  peaceably  or- 
dered by  Thy  governance,  that  Thy  Church  may  joy- 
fully serve  Thee  in  all  godly  quietness  :  that  so  they 
may  walk  in  th«  ways  of  truth  and  peace,  and  at  last 
be  numbered  with  Thy  Saints  in  glory  everlasting: 
Through  Thy  merits,  0  blessed  Jesus,  Thou  gracious 
Bishop  and  Shepherd  of  our  souls.  Who  art,  with  the 
Father  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  One  God,  world  without 
end.    Amen. 


The  Collects.  347 

GRANT,  we  beseech  Thee,  Merciful  Lord,  to  Thy 
faithful  people,  pardon  and  peace;  that  they 
may  be  cleansed  from  all  their  sins,  and  serve  Thee 
with  a  quiet  mind,  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord. 
Amen. 

OGOD,  whose  never-failing  providence  ordereth  all 
things  both  in  heaven  and  earth :  we  humbly 
beseech  Thee  to  put  away  from  us  all  hurtful  things, 
and  to  give  us  those  things  which  are  profitable  for  us, 
through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

ALMIGHTY  and  everlasting  God,  who  art  always , 
more  ready  to  hear  than  we  to  pray,  and  art 
wont  to  give  more  than  either  we  desire  or  deserve : 
pour  down  upon  us  the  abundance  of  Thy  mercy,  for- 
giving us  those  things  whereof  our  conscience  is.  afraid, 
and  giving  us  those  good  things  which  we  are  not  wor- 
thy to  ask,  but  through  the  merits  and  mediation  of 
Jesus  Christ  Thy  Son  our  Lord.     Amen. 

OLORD,  we  beseech  Thee,  let  Thy  continual  pity 
cleanse  and  defend  Thy  Church;  and  because 
it  cannot  continue  in  safety  without  Thy  succour, 
preserve  it  evermore  by  Thy  help  and  goodness, 
through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 


348  TheCollects. 

LORD,  we  pray  Thee,  that  Thy  grace  may  always 
prevent  and  follow  us  ;  and  make  us  continually 
to  be  given  to  all  good  works,  through  Jesus  Christ 

our  Lord.     Amen. 

•■-• 

LORD,  we  beseech  Thee  to  keep  Thy  household  the 
Church  in  continual  godliness ;  that,  through 
Thy  protection,  it  may  be  free  from  all  adversities, 
and  devoutly  given  to  serve  Thee  in  good  works,  to 
the  glory  of  Thy  Name,  through  Jesus  Christ  our 
Lord.     Amen. 

OGOD,  our  refuge  and  strength,  who  art  the 
author  of  all  godliness  :  be  ready,  we  beseech 
Thee,  to  hear  the  devout  prayers  of  Thy  Church ;  and 
grant  that  those  things  which  we  ask  faithfully,  we 
may  obtain  effectually,  through  Jesus  Christ  our 
Lord.    Amen. 

ALMIGrHTY  God,  who  hast  given  us  grace  at  this 
time  with  one  accord  to  make  our  common  sup- 
plications unto  Thee  ;  and  dost  promise  that  when  two 
or  three  are  gathered  together  in  Thy  Name,  Thou 
wilt  grant  their  requests  :  Fulfil  now,  0  Lord,  the  de- 
sires and  petitions  of  Thy  servants,  as  may  be  most 
expedient  for  them  ;  granting  us  in  this  world  knowl- 
edge of  Thy  Truth,  and  in  the  world  to  come  life  ever- 
lasting.   Amen. 


APPENDIX. 


NOTE,  INTRODUCTION,  Page  xviL 

As  it  is  of  some  consequence  to  show  that  Knox's  Liturgy  held 
its  place  in  the  esteem  of  the  Church  down  to  the  time  of  adopting 
the  "Westminster  Directory,  we  give  a  few  of  the  parallel  passages 
referred  to  in  the  text,  indicating  the  frequent  and  special  use  that 
was  made  of  that  Liturgy  in  the  Assembly's  production. 

From  the  Thanksgiving  after  Baptism : 


Knox's  Litubgy. 

. .  .  We  give  Thee  most  humble 
thanks  for  Thine  infinite  goodness, 
■which  hast  7}ot  only  numbered  us 
amongst  Thy  saints,  but  also  of  Thy 
free  mercy  dost  call  our  children  unto 
Thee,  marking  them  with  this  Sacra- 
ment, as  a  singular  token  and  seal 
of  Thy  love. .  . . 

.  .  .  That  Thou  wilt  confirm  this 
Thy  favour  more  omoL  more  towards 
us,  and  take  this  infant  into  TJvy 
twition  and  defence. . . . 


DlEECTORY. 

.  . .  Acknowledging  with  all  thank- 
fulness . .  .  that  He  is  good  and  gra- 
cious, Tiot  only  that  He  nvmbereth  us 
among  If  is  saints,  but  is  pleased  also 
to  bestow  upon  our  children  this  sin- 
gular token  and  badge  of  His  love 
in  Christ.  .  . . 

.  .  .  and  daily  confirm  more  and 
more  this  His  unspeakable  famour  : 
that  He  would  receive  the  infant  now 
baptized  .  . .  into  His  fatherly  tuition 
and  defence.  ... 


From  the  Exhortation  at  the  Lord's  Supper : 


...  I  separate  from  this  Table  all 
blasphemers,  etc.  . .  .  charging  them 
.  .  .  that  they  presume  not  to  profane 
this  most  holy  Table. 

.  .  .  Neither  yet  is  this  pronounced 
against  such  as  aspire  to  a  greater 
perfection  than  they  can  in  this  pre' 
sent  life  attain. 


...  He  is  in  the  name  of  Christ . . . 
to  warn  all  such  . .  .  that  they  pre- 
su7ne  not  to  come  to  that  holy  Table. 

. . .  Invite  all  that  desire  to  reach 
out  ymto  a  greater  progress  in  grace 
than  they  can  yet  attain  unto.  . .  . 


350  Appendix. 


From  the  Consecratmg  Prayer : 

Knox's  Litttegt.  Dibectoey. 

. . .  From   the    bondage    whereof  . . .  From  which  neither  mem  or 

neither  man  nor  angel  was  able  to  angel  was  able  to  deliver  tis.  . .  . 
make  us  free.  . . . 

...  To  declare  and  witness  before  ...  To  profess  that  there  la  none 

the  world,  that  by  Him  alone  we  ha/ve  other  name  under  heaven  by  which 

recevoed  liberty  and  life ;    .  . .  that  we  can  be  saved,  but  the  name  of 

by  Him  alone  we  have  entrance  to  Jesus  Christ ;  by  whom  alone  we  re- 

the  throne  of  Thy  grace;  that  by  ceive  liberty  and  life,  have  access  to 

Sim  alone  we  are  possessed  in  our  the  throne  of  grace,  are  admitted  to 

spiritual  kingdom,  to  eat  cmd  drink  eat  and  drink   at  His  own  Table, 

at  His  Table,  etc  etc. 


THE  TABLE  OF  PORTIONS  OF  SCRIPTURE. 

The  orderly  reading  of  Scripture  in  the  public  services  of  the 
Sanctuary,  has  always  been  enjoined  and  pract'Ised  among  the  Re- 
formed Churches.  Not  only  one  portion  or  chapter  from  each  Tes- 
tament, as  prescribed  by  the  "Westminster  Directory  of  "Worship, 
but  generally  several  chapters,  are  appointed  in  the  French,  Swiss, 
and  "Waldensian  Churches,  for  the  ordinary  service  of  the  Lord's 
Day.  These  lessons  are  read,  not  by  the  officiating  ministers,  but 
by  a  clerk,  immediately  before  the  commencement  of  the  public 
prayers ;  and  the  reading  is  always  concluded  with  the  Ten  Com- 
mandments. The  early  editions  of  the  Scottish  Liturgy,  or  Book 
of  Common  Order,  contain  this  direction :  "  Upon  the  days  ap- 
pointed for  the  preaching  of  the  Word,  when  a  convenient  number 
of  the  Congregation  have  come  together,  that  they  may  make  fruit 
of  their  presence  till  the  assembly  be  full,  one,  appointed  by  the  El- 
dership, shall  read  some  chapters  of  the  Canonical  Books  of  Scrip- 
ture, singing  Psalms  between  at  his  discretion :  and  this  reading  to 
be  in  order,  as  the  books  and  chapters  follow,  that  so  from  time  to 
time  the  Holy  Scriptures  may  be  read  through.  But  upon  special 
occasion,  special  chapters  may  be  appointed."  The  same  provision, 
in  words  very  similar,  was  made  a  century  later  by  the  Divines  of 
Westminster :  who,  however,  judiciously  transferred  this  part  of 
divine  worship  to  a  more  central  location  in  the  service.  In  the 
selection  of  portions  of  Scripture  here  given,  it  is  not  contemplated 


Appendix.  351 

that  any  should  strictly  confine  themselves  to  a  consecutive  course 
of  reading,  as  it  will  frequently  appear  advisable  to  select  passages 
more  suitable  to  the  time  or  theme  of  discourse.  But,  on  ordinary 
occasions,  this,  or  some  similar  order,  will  be  found  convenient  and 
profitable. 


THE  ORDER  OF  DIVINE  SERVICE  ON  THE  LORD'S  DAT. 

Morning  Service.  The  first  of  the  Opening  Sentences  consti- 
tutes the  invariable  exordium  of  all  the  Reformed  liturgies.  Other 
sentences  have  been  added,  with  a  view  to  variety. 

The  Invitation,  which  is  here  put  in  Scriptural  words,  reads  in 
the  Calvinistic  formularies,  thus  :  "  Brethren,  let  each  of  you  present 
himself  lefore  the  Lord,  to  make  an  humble  confession  of  his  sins, 
following  in  heart  these  words. ''^ 

The  Confession  of  Sin,  composed  by  Calvin,  occupies  this  place 
in  all  the  Reformed  liturgies,  and  the  variations  are  but  slight  and 
merely  verbal. 

The  Declaration  of  Forgiveness,  in  the  form  of  a  recital  of  Gos- 
pel assurances  of  pardon  to  the  penitent,  was  used  by  the  early 
Reformed  churches  in  France  and  elsewhere,  at  the  express  recom- 
mendation of  Calvin;  who,  however,  for  reasons  thus  stated  by 
him,  did  not  introduce  this  feature  into  the  liturgy  of  Geneva. 
"There  is  none  of  us,"  says  he,  "but  must  acknowledge  it  to  be 
very  useful  that,  after  the  general  confession,  some  striking  prom- 
ise of  Scripture  should  follow,  whereby  sinners  might  be  raised  to 
hopes  of  pardon  and  reconciliation.  And  I  would  have  introduced 
this  custom  from  the  beginning;  but  some  fearing  that  the  novelty 
of  it  would  give  ofience,  I  was  over  easy  in  yielding  to  them." 
The  custom  was,  however,  adopted  in  the  church  of  Strasburg, 
from  whose  liturgy,  prepared  under  Calvin's  auspices,  it  was  imi- 
tated, together  with  the  preceding  Sentences,  Invitation,  and  Con- 
fession, by  the  compilers  of  the  Anglican  Book  of  Common  Prayer. 

The  Supplication  is  Calvin's  Prayer  before  Sermon;  and  the 
Thanksgiving  which  follows  it,  is  by  Knox.  With  this  latter  ex- 
ception, all  the  forms  of  this  Morning  Service  are  from  the  liturgy 
of  the  Genevan  Reformer. 


352  Appendix.  '- 

Other  Forms,  for  the  Morning  Service.  The  Beatitudes,  and 
the  Summary  of  our  Lord's  Precepts,  are  here  given  as  appropriate 
for  occasional  use  instead  of  the  Decalogue.  The  succeeding  forms 
for  the  Confession  of  Sin,  are  those  of  Baxter,  Knox,  and  Bucer. 
Of  the  forms  of  Thanksgiving,  the  first  is  from  Baxter,  the  second 
from  the  American  revision  of  the  Directory  of  Worship  (a.  d. 
11  SI),  and  the  thu-d  from  the  Liturgy  of  the  Waldensian  Church. 
The  forms  of  Intercession  are  those  of  Knox,  Baxter,  and  the  Liturgy 
of  Neuchatel  (prepared  by  the  Reformed  theologian  Ostervald). 

Evening  Service.  The  Presbyterian  formularies  of  worship 
impose  no  special  order  for  the  second  service  on  the  Lord's  Day. 
That  service  was  originally  devoted  to  the  catechetical  instruction. 
of  the  young ;  and  the  Minister  in  conducting  it  was  left  to  entire 
freedom  of  selection  or  composition.  The  prayers  here  furnished 
are  taken  from  the  various  Reformed  liturgies.  The  Invocation  ia 
Calvin's.  The  Litany,  though  modelled  upon  the  ancient  litanies, 
was  prepared,  as  it  here  stands,  by  the  Reformer  Bucer,  from  whose 
"  Reformation  of  Doctrine  and  "Worship"  it  is  translated.  From  this 
form  the  Litany  of  the  English  Prayer-Book  is  mainly  borrowed. 
The  Closing  Prayer  is  by  Knox. 

Other  Forms,  for  the  Evening  Service.  Baxter  is  the  author 
of  both  the  alternate  forms  of  Invocation  here  given.  It  is  from 
the  Reformed  liturgy  prepared  by  that  divine,  that  the  several 
prayers  attributed  to  him  in  this  volume  are  taken.  The  General 
Prayers  which  follow,  are  respectively  by  Knox  and  Calvin  ;  the 
first  and  fourth  b^  the  former,  the  second  and  third  by  the  lat- 
ter. Of  the  Closing  Prayers,  one  is  from  Knox's  Liturgy,  another 
from  the  Waldensian,  and  a  third  from  the  Reformed  Dutch 
liturgy. 


THE  MANNER  OF  CELEBRATING  THE  LORD'S  SUPPER. 

This  form  of  service,  established  by  Calvin,  is  substantially  the 
same  with  that  used  at  the  present  day  in  all  the  continental 
branches  of  the  Reformed  Church.  The  Consecrating  Prayer  is 
taken  from  the  present  Liturgy  of  Geneva.  The  directions  for  the 
administration  are  quoted  from  the  Directory  of  Worship  of  the 
Presbyterian  Church.     The  sentences  of  Scripture  to  be  repeated 


Appendix.         t»^  353 

during  the  participation,  are  such  as  it  is  customary  to  pronounce 
on  that  occasion,  in  the  French  and  Swiss  Churches. 

Of  the  other  forms  for  this  Celebration,  the  first  is  from  Knox's 
liturgy,  the  second  from  Baxter's,  and  the  third  from  the  liturgy 
of  the  Reformed  Dutch  Church. 


THE  FORM  OF  ADMIXISTERIKG  BAPTISM. 

This  is  Calvin's  formulary,  completed  by  the  insertion  of  the 
questions  and  covenant  engagements  required  by  the  Directory  of 
"Worship  ;  and  by  the  addition  of  the  closing  Thanksgiving,  which 
was  composed  by  Knox. 

The  other  forms  of  administering  this  Ordinance,  are  Knox's, 
Baxter's,  and  that  of  the  Reformed  Dutch  Church.  From  the  last 
source  is  also  taken  the  succeeding  Form  of  Baptizing  Adult 
Persons. 

The  Form  of  Admitting  Baptized  Persons  to  the  Lord's  Table,  is 
from  the  Waldensian  Liturgy ;  the  Preface  being  added  from  Is.  xliv. 
The  Benediction,  as  here  given,  occurs  in  the  Neuchatel  service  for 
the  same  occasion.  It  forms  part  of  the  ordinary  form  of  blessing 
appointed  in  the  Book  of  Common  Prayer ;  but  is  original  with  Bu- 
cer,  in  his  "  Reformation,"  etc. 

The  Reformed  Churches  recognize  no  mode  of  admission  to  church 
membership,  other  than  by  the  administration  of  baptism.  In  the 
case  of  adults  who  have  received  that  rite  in  infancy,  the  confirma- 
tion of  their  baptismal  vows  is  ordinarily  performed  in  public  before 
the  congregation. 


OCCASIONAL  OFFICES. 


Order  of  Service  for  a  Day  of  Humiliation,  Fasting,  and 
Prayer.  The  directions  as  to  this  service  are  quoted,  as  in  all  other 
instances  so  marked,  from  the  Directory  of  Worship  of  the  Presby- 
terian Church,  The  selection  of  Scripture  forming  the  Preface,  is 
taken  from  the  French  and  Genevan  Liturgies.  The  passages  indi- 
cated for  the  First  and  Second  Readings,  are  those  given  in  the 
Waldensian  Liturgy  for  the  same  occasion.    A  selection  somewhat 


354  Appendix. 

similar  occurs  in  John  Knox's  service.  The  Opening  Prayer  is 
abridged  from  Knox's  "  Treatise  of  Easting,"  drawn  up  at  the  re- 
quest of  the  General  Assembly  of  the  Church  of  Scotland  in  1565, 
and  published  with  authority.  This  Treatise,  which  contains  forms 
for  the  observance  of  a  special  season  of  humihation  throughout  the 
land,  was  in  the  Assembly  of  1569  ratified  for  all  future  appoint- 
ments of  a  similar  nature ;  and  ministers  were  enjoined  "  To  use  the 
Exercise  accustomed  in  the  Kirk  of  the  first  institution.  Moreover, 
that  all  Superintendents  and  Commissioners  of  provinces  shall  here- 
after institute  and  use  the  same  Order  of  Easting,  as  oft  as  just  oc- 
casion shall  serve  and  shall  seem  meet  by  their  godly  wisdom, 
without  any  farther  appointment  by  the  G-eneral  Assembly."* 

The  beautiful  form  of  a  General  Prayer  here  introduced,  was  com- 
posed by  Calvin  for  the  Church  of  Geneva,  in  the  year  1541 ;  "  when 
Germany  was  infested  both  with  war  and  pestilence."  '^  Frceca- 
iiones  quibus  in  Us  uterentur,  conscripsi^ — Calv.  Ejp.  Perhaps  no 
part  of  the  Calvinistic  ritual  has  obtained  a  wider  currency.  Knox 
transferred  it  to  tlie  Book  of  Common  Order.  The  Puritan  Prayer- 
Book  published  at  London  about  the  year  1570,  appoints  it  to  be 
used  on  a  day  set  apart  for  Common  Prayer.  The  Middleburgh 
Liturgy  of  1602  presents  the  same  form  unaltered.  Archbishop 
Grindal  adopted  it  as  a  form  of  Prayer  and  Easting  for  the  Church 
of  England  in  1563.  The  several  Erench  and  Swiss  formularies 
contain  it  under  its  appropriate  head ;  and  the  Reformed  Dutch  lit- 
urgy, by  a  strange  misplacement,  has  it  as  a  "  Prayer  on  the  Lord's 
Day  after  sermon."  "We  have  adopted  Grindal's  translation,  sup- 
plying from  the  original  a  few  omissions. 

Order  of  Service  for  a  Day  of  Thanksgiving.  The  prayer 
here  given  is  extracted  from  the  American  edition  of  the  Liturgy  of 
Neuchatel,  as  adopted  in  the  Huguenot  Church  at  Charleston,  S.  C. 


THE   OEEICE   EOR  THE  CONFIRMATION  OF  MARRIAGE. 

This  form,  chiefly  compiled  from  tRe  ancient  Reformed  offices,  is 
that  prepared  by  the  Rev.  Dr.  Bethune,  of  Brooklyn,  N.  Y.,  for 
the  revised  liturgy  of  the  Reformed  Dutch  Church. 

*  Book  of  the  Universal  Kirk  of  Scotland:  Edinburgh,  1839,  p.  116. 


Appendix.  355 


THE  BURIAL  OF  THE  DEAD. 

The  early  practice  of  the  Church  of  Scotland,  with  respect  to  the 
Burial  of  the  Dead,  has  been  variously  stated.  The  impression 
seems  to  prevail,  that  all  external  ceremonies  were  positively  for- 
bidden after  the  Reformation,  whether  at  the  church  before  burial, 
or  at  the  grave.  In  fact,  the  First  Book  of  Discipline,  a.  d.  1560, 
declares,  "  We  think  it  most  expedient  that  the  dead  be  conveyed 
to  the  place  of  burial  with  some  honest  company  of  the  Kirk, 
without  either  singing  or  reading ;  yea,  without  any  kind  of  cere- 
mony heretofore  used,  other  than  that  the  dead  be  committed  to 
the  grave  with  such  gravity  and  sobriety,  as  those  that  be  present 
may  seem  to  fear  the  judgment  of  God,  and  to  hate  sin,  which  is 
the  cause  of  death."* 

But  the  Book  of  Common  Order,  already  pubhshed  four  years 
earlier,  and  then  in  force,  as  it  continued  to  be  for  a  century  later, 
had,  on  the  contrary,  prescribed,  that  after  the  burial,  "  The  Minis- 
ter, if  he  be  present  and  required,  goeth  to  the  church,  if  it  be  not 
far  off,  and  maketh  some  comfortable  exhortation  to  the  people 
touching  death  and  resurrection,  "f 

Among  the  papers  published  by  the  "Wodrow  Society,  in  the  first 
volume  of  their  Miscellany,  is  "  The  Form  and  Manner  of  Burial 
used  in  the  Kirk  of  Montrose."  This  interesting  document  was 
found  written  on  the  fly-leaves  of  a  manuscript  copy  of  the  Regiam 
Majestatem,  which  had  been  transcribed  by  John  Bannatyne,  in 
1620.  The  form  of  burial  is  without  date ;  but  from  the  mention 
of  "  Minister  or  i?ea(Zer,"  it  was  evidently  in  use  before  the  year 
1581,  when  the  office  of  Reader  was  superseded  by  act  of  General 
Assembly. 

This  order  of  service  is  very  simple.  It  is  prefaced  thus :  *'  The 
body  being  reverently  brought  to  the  grave,  accompanied  with  the 
congregation,  the  Minister  or  Reader  shall  say  as  follows.":}:  Then 
a  long  address,  beginning,  "  Dearly  'beloved,  when  we  look  upon 
this  dead  corpse  here  present,  with  consideration  that  the  like  sen- 
tence of  death  is  pronounced  of  God  upon  all  flesh,  it  ought  and 
should  imprint  in  our  minds  the  knowledge  of  our  sinfulness :  for, 
if  we  were  without  sin,  death  should  have  no  power  over  us."    The 

♦  Dunlop's  Collection  of  Confessions,  vol.  ii.  p.  597. 

t  Id.,  vol  ii.  p.  468.  4^  "We  have  modernized  tlie  spelling. 


356  Appendix.  * 

exhortation  is  closed  with  a  prayer,  introduced  in  these  words* 
"  This  being  done,  the  Minister  shall  pray  in  effect  as  follows." 
The  prayer  is  almost  identical  with  that  of  the  English  Burial  Ser- 
vice, introduced  at  the  time  of  the  revision  in  1552,  and  beginning, 
"Almighty  God,  with  whom  do  live  the  spirits  of  them  that  depart 
from  this  life  in  the  faith  of  Thy  dear  Son  Jesus  Christ,"  etc. 

This  ancient  service  closes  with  a  remarkable  Funeral  Hymn ; 
one  of  those  spuitual  songs  which  are  attributed  to  John  Wedder- 
burn  of  Dundee  and  his  brothers,  and  which  are  said  to  have  great- 
ly assisted  in  advancing  the  Reformation.     It  begins — 

"  Our  brother  late  we  put  in  grave, 
And  no  doubt  thereof  bat*  we  have ; 
But  he  shall  rise  at  Doomesday, 
And  shall  immortal  live  for  aye."f 

'  The  Liturgies  of  the  Reformed  Churches  on  the  Continent,  sup- 
ply us  with  few  examples  of  a  service  for  Burial.  The  danger  of 
superstitious  observances,  at  the  period  when  those  formularies 
were  compiled,  deterred  Calvin  and  others  from  furnishing  any 
prescribed  order.  It  has  always  been  customary  to  consecrate  the 
last  offices  at  the  grave  with  prayer :  but  for  even  this,  the  French 
liturgy  gives  no  form. 

Martin  Bucer  was  the  author  of  a  service  for  the  Burial  of  the 
Dead,  which  is  to  be  found  in  Herman's  Reformation  of  Cologne. 
This  service  the  English  Reformers  partly  followed.  The  selections 
of  Scripture,  from  St.  John  xi,,  Psalm  xc,  and  1  Cor.  xv.,  are  there 
indicated.  But  Bucer's  form  possesses  a  merit  of  adaptation  which 
is  wanting  to  that  of  the  Anglican  Church  ;  for,  in  addition  to  the 
services  for  adults,  there  is  an  "  Alia  Goncio  in  Funere  Adolescentis, 
vel  AdolescentulcBy  The  Anglican  words  of  sepulture  are  taken 
from  Bucer's  "  Postquam  sic  visum  est  Omnipotenti  Deo,  ut  hunc 
fratrem  nostrum  pro  su4  misericordi^  ex  hoc  mundo  sublatum  ad 
se  reciperet,"  etc. 

The  present  Form  of  Burial  is  borrowed  from  the  revision  of  the 
Reformed  Dutch  liturgy,  prepared  by  a  committee  under  appoint- 
ment of  the  General  Synod.  The  selection  of  Scripture  is  the  best 
that  we  have  seen.    Three  services  are  provided  for :  a  short  one 

*  Grief.  (?) 

t  Miscellany  of  the  Wodrow  Society,  Edinburgh,  1844,  vol.  i.  pp.  291-SOO. 


Appendix.  357 

at  the  house,  a  principal  one  at  the  church,  and  a  form  of  inter- 
ment. The  several  portions  of  Scripture  provided,  are  appropriate 
to  various  ages  and  circumstances.  The  prayer  concluding  the 
service  at  the  church,  is  from  Jeremy  Taylor ;  it  has  been  intro- 
duced into  the  American  edition  of  the  Book  of  Common  Prayer. 


PUBLIC  DISCIPLINE,  ORDINATION,  ETC. 

The  Forms  of  Public  Discipline.  The  manner  of  proceeding 
with  persons  subject  to  ecclesiastical  discipline  is  here  detailed,  as 
prescribed  by  the  Directory  of  Worship;  and  the  form  of  public 
excommunication  is  quoted  from  the  same  authority.  The  address 
is  from  Knox's  Book  of  Common  Order,  and  the  prayers  from  the 
Reformed  Dutch  liturgy. 

The  Forms  of  Ordination  are  compiled  from  the  Directory  and 
the  Reformed  Dutch  liturgy ;  with  the  exception  of  the  Ordaining 
Prayer,  page  242,  extracted  from  "  The  Form  and  Order  of  the 
Election  of  the  Superintendent ;  which  may  serve  in  Electing  of  all 
other  Ministers ;  at  Edinburg,  the  9th  of  March,  1569:  John  Knox 
being  Moderator." 


SCRIPTURAL  AND  OTHER  OCCASIONAL  PRAYERS. 

Scriptural  Prayers.  Nothmg  can  be  more  commendable  than 
the  use  of  Scripture  language  in  prayer ;  but  that  use  should  be 
reverent  and  judicious.  The  violent  disseverance  of  passages  of 
Holy  Writ  from  their  proper  connection ;  their  forced  application 
to  irrelevant  topics ;  the  confusion  of  Oriental  metaphors  and 
poetic  allusions :  are  defects  too  obvious  for  indication,  yet  apparent 
to  a  very  wide  extent  in  the  "  unwritten  liturgy"  of  our  pulpits. 
The  language  of  the  New  Testament  is  in  general  much  more  suited 
to  appropriation  for  the  purposes  of  public  devotion,  than  that  of  the 
poetic  portions  of  the  Old.  In  those  passages  of  the  Epistles,  more 
particularly,  where  the  inspired  writer  expresses  with  distinctness 
the  subject  of  his  own  supplications,  we  are  furnished  with  ma- 
terial that  may  very  properly  be  restored,  from  the  form  of  narra- 
tive, to  that  of  direct  address,  and  so  employed  in  our  own  devo- 


358  Appendix. 

tions.  In  fact,  by  a  combination  of  such  passages,  along  with 
that  divine  prayer  left  us  by  our  Lord,  we  possess  an  Inspired  Lit- 
urgy, conceived,  "  not  in  the  words  which  man's  wisdom  teacheth, 
but  which  the  Holy  Ghost  teacheth:"  a  liturgy  incomparably  com- 
plete and  beautiful.  It  is,  therefore,  just  matter  of  surprise,  that  such 
a  use  of  Scripture  petitions,  in  their  natural  sequence  and  designed 
application,  should  not  have  been  recommended,  in  preference  to 
an  artificial  "  method  of  prayer"  which  has  the  sanction  of  such  high 
names  as  Henry  and  Doddridge,  and  which  consists  in  the  agglom- 
eration of  a  vast  number  of  distinct  jjassages,  brought  into  strange 
juxtaposition,  in  utter  disregard  of  all  the  unities,  and  in  utter  vio- 
lation of  all  rules  of  taste. 

The  Scriptural  Prayers  here  given  are  chiefly  from  those  pas- 
sages in  the  Apostolic  writings,  where  an  address  to  the  Throne  of 
Grace  is  expressed ;  the  only  change  being  in  substituting,  as  the 
object  addressed,  the  second  person  for  the  third.  The  exceptions 
are,  the  forms  of  Confession,  taken  from  the  penitential  Psalms,  and 
from  the  prayer  of  Daniel ;  and  the  forms  of  Adoration,  being  con- 
structed of  passages  that  occur  in  Nehemiah,  1  Chronicles,  and  the 
Revelations. 

A  Comprehensive  Prater,  chiefly  in  the  words  of  Scripture. 
This  form  of  Adoration,  Confession,  Supplication,  Thanksgiving, 
and  Intercession,  is  quoted  in  full  from  the  Draught  of  the  Direc- 
tory of  Worship  of  the  Presbyterian  Church  in  the  United  States, 
prepared  in  the  year  1787  by  a  committee  under  appointment  of 
the  Synod.  This  Draught,  though  printed,  and  strongly  recom- 
mended for  adoption,  was  not  accepted.  It  was  drawn  up  by  the 
Rev.  Drs.  John  Rodgers,  and  Alexander  Mac  Whorter,  and  the 
Rev.  Messrs.  Alexander  Miller  and  James  "Wilson ;  and  was  ad- 
vocated, among  others,  by  the  late  venerable  Ashbel  Green,  D.D. 
While  preserving  the  title  of  a  Directory,  this  was,  in  fact,  for  sub- 
stance and  form,  a  discretionary  liturgy,  akin  to  those  existing  in 
the  Continental  Churches. 

Sundry  Occasional  Prayers.  The  Morning  and  Evening 
Prayers  are  those  of  Calvin.  These  are  succeeded  by  a  short  but 
most  beautiful  prayer  for  all  men,  extracted  from  John  Norden'g 
"Progress  of  Piety,"  A.  D.  1596.  The  prayer  for  Pardon  and  Help 
is  translated  from  a  service-book  of  the  Greek  Church.     Following 


Appendix  359 

are  a  number  of  prayers  suited  to  various  occasions,  taken  from  the 
proposed  revision  of  the  Reformed  Dutch  liturgy.  The  prayer 
"to  be  used  at  Sea,"  has  been  prepared  for  this  work  by  the  Rev. 
C.  S.  Stewart,  U.  S.  N".  Appended  is  the  prayer  for  civil  authorities, 
from  the  Protestant  Episcopal  Book  of  Common  Prayer. 

The  Collects  are  short  prayers,  adapted  to  particular  occasions, 
and  designed  to  be  introduced  as  may  seem  convenient,  into  the 
public  services  of  the  Church.  Many  of  these  prayers  are  of  very- 
early  origin ;  some  of  them  dating  as  far  back  as  the  year  of  our  Lord 
590,  others  still  older,  to  the  year  494 ;  and  a  few  have  been  traced 
to  the  year  483.  The  Collects  here  given  are  taken  from  the 
Book  of  Common  Prayer  of  the  Church  of  England,  as  revised 
in  1689  by  the  Royal  Commissioners  appointed  in  the  reign  of 
William  and  Mary.  This  revision  was  never  completed,  and  in- 
deed the  results  of  it  have  but  lately  become  public.  Tillotson, 
Patrick,  Stillingfleet,  Tenison,  and  other  eminent  divines  of  the 
day,  took  a  prominent  part  in  the  debates. 

The  Revised  Liturgy  of  1689,  from  which  these  Collects  are 
taken,  was  prepared  with  a  view  to  the  satisfaction  of  the  non- 
conformists, and  the  reconciling,  as  much  as  possible,  of  all  differ- 
ences between  them  and  the  Church  of  England.  To  this  end,  the 
objections  and  demands  which  at  various  times  had  been  offered  by 
opponents  of  the  Prayer-Book,  were  collected,  and  made  the  basis 
of  a  careful  revision.  It  had  been  a  special  matter  of  complaint, 
in  reference  to  the  Collects,  that  many  of  them  were  too  brief^  and 
not  sufficiently  scriptural,  as  to  thought  and  expression.  In  these 
respects,  as  in  others,  the  Commissioners  sought  to  amend  the 
various  parts  of  the  Liturgy ;  and  so  liberal  and  judicious  was  the 
course  pursued  by  them,  that  the  eminent  nonconformist  Calamy 
gave  it  as  his  opinion,' that  their  scheme  would  have  brought  into 
the  Church  of  England  two  thirds  of  the  Dissenters.  The  cer- 
tainty, however,  that  these  changes,  though  approved  by  the 
Court,  and  by  a  majority  of  the  bishops,  would  be  rejected  by  the 
lower  house  of  Convocation,  prevented  an  actual  adoption  of  the 
reforms  contemplated  by  the  Royal  Commission ;  and  their  work 
remained  under  seal  at  Lambeth  Palace,  until,  by  order  of  the 
House  of  Commons,  in  1854,  it  was  published. 


360 


Appendix. 


These  Ee vised  Collects  have,  therefore,  a  definite  claim  upon  our 
regard,  as  prepared  by  some  of  the  most  pious  and  enlightened  of 
the  English  divines,  in  express  agreement  with  the  views  and  re- 
quests of  their  nonconformist  brethren.  It  would  seem  most  fit- 
ting, that,  after  more  than  a  century  and  a  hal^  these  prayers 
should  be  incorporated  with  a  collection  of  the  forms  of  worship 
that  are  peculiar  to  the  Presbyterian  Churches. 


TJHIVBJSIT 


THE    END. 


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